ITEE ITEE-1 | Page 97

3-1 System strategy 3-1-1 Concept of information systems strategy An “information systems strategy” aims to increase the medium- to long-term efficiency of operations by implementing a business strategy that focuses on the computerization of business activities. This requires ascertaining the current business activities, analyzing the effectiveness of system installation and its investment effect, and formulating plans for installation. 1 Reference Sales support system A “sales support system” is a system used to support sales activities. It aims to make sales activities more efficient by managing the history of negotiations with customers, and sharing resources such as customer information and sales technique know-how. It is also referred to as “SFA (Sales Force Automation).” When planning for computerization, it is important to have a proper understanding of the current contents and flow of operations. Blindly computerizing everything will not automatically produce benefits. The goal is not just to achieve computerization, but to construct an information system that is consistent with the company’s business and enterprise strategies based on an understanding of the current business activities. Two benefits of computerization are summarized below. Benefit Description Streamlining of operations Work hours can be reduced and calculation errors can be avoided through the computerization of routine, manual work such as filling in slips and managing inventory figures. Support for operations Once sales strategies and business strategies are determined, searches and tabulation can be performed efficiently by computerizing the analysis of large volumes of accumulated data. 2 Reference SWOT analysis Refer to “Chapter 2-1-1 Business strategy techniques.” Significance of information systems strategy Objectives of information systems strategy In order to implement business and enterprise strategies, it is necessary to set specific objectives through SWOT and business environment analyses. To clarify the objectives, target operations require modeling. Modeling techniques are summarized below. ●Business model A “business model” is a framework for what the company will do as a business and how it will generate profits. It is important to differentiate the business model in order to gain an advantage over the competition and achieve success. 91