Global Information Systems: Problems, Solutions, and How to Manage Them

Authors

J. Anthony Flynn, Manhattan College

Abstract

The rapid changes in Information Technology (IT) have helped U.S. companies grow into Multinational Corporations (MNCs) and have been the driving force in the building and operation of global Information Systems (IS). Present training in the U.S. in Management Information Systems (MIS) has focused on building the IS within the country. When MNCs expand the IS globally, a whole series of new problems must be faced. These include different cultures, languages, currencies, laws, as well as the amount of money spent on IS and IT. Different levels of competency are found in different countries and both IS and IT education may vary greatly. In order to solve these problems IS managers must begin to think globally, yet become more aware of each local situation and be willing to accept a less than perfect solution. Top management of MNCs must be aware of the strain that is placed on the IS manager who has to solve these problems while coping with the constantly changing IT and yet must build an IS that will keep the company competitive. Educational reform is needed to meet this challenge. Multinational corporations, rather than domestic ones, should become the norm for all management studies. IS managers will tend to be less technical but must then have help from both technical and legal assistants.

Recommended Citation

Flynn, J. Anthony (1994) "Global Information Systems: Problems, Solutions, and How to Manage Them," Journal of Information Systems Education: Vol. 6 : Iss. 3 , 142-147.
Available at: https://aisel.aisnet.org/jise/vol6/iss3/3