Journal of Information Technology
Document Type
Research Article
Abstract
Based on a series of structured interviews with several senior management figures, this paper explores two different approaches to competitiveness within the literature, namely the technology-driven approach and the competency-driven approach, and asks whether they can be reconciled with the real world experiences of corporate managers. The technology driven approach is based on the belief that information technology (IT) offers a powerful source of competitive advantage. Popularized by, and based on the work of, Michael Porter there is a corresponding emphasis on planning and the use of ‘generic’ strategies. The competency driven approach, on the other hand, holds that each company possesses unique sources of advantage, which it must exploit to derive maximum benefits. The focus is on flexibility, while no ‘recipes’ for success are offered. Given that these two approaches appear to be diametrically opposed, 16 senior management figures from leading edge companies were interviewed to determine which, if either, of the two views was more in tune with reality. This paper details the findings.
DOI
10.1177/026839629601100205
Recommended Citation
Booth, Marilyn E. and Philip, George
(1996)
"Technology Driven and Competency Driven Approaches to Competitiveness: Are they Reconcilable?,"
Journal of Information Technology: Vol. 11:
Iss.
2, Article 5.
DOI: 10.1177/026839629601100205
Available at:
https://aisel.aisnet.org/jit/vol11/iss2/5