A fractal perspective on competencies necessary for managing information systems. (31st March 2005)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dhillon, Gurpreet; Fabian, Frances
• Is Part Of: International journal of technology management. Volume 31:Number 1/2(2005)
• Page Start: 129
• Page End: 139
• Publication Date: 2005-03-31
• Subjects: organisational competencies -- individual skills -- information systems management -- chaos theory -- fractal phenomena -- information technology management -- nonlinear complex systems -- pattern recognition -- coherence attainment -- adaptability; Technology -- Management -- Periodicals; 658.4062
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0267-5730

Abstract

In this paper, we present a view of the necessary skill set for managing information technology (IT) in organisations. Our assessment is based on viewing this task as part of managing within a nonlinear complex system. While managing IT in nonlinear complex systems, managers accept that control is neither achievable nor desirable. Rather, IT systems are conceptualised as embodying a fractal quality in which they must be customised to reflect the most essential aspects of the organisation's business policies. The manager's job becomes one of assessing whether there is a continued coherence between what the changing organisation is doing and what the system can provide, and thus embodies special abilities of pattern recognition and adaptability.