Back to course 'BUS303: Strategic Information Technology'

Topic outline

  • Unit 6: Creating a Technology Strategy

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    One of the overall goals of this course is that you would learn how to think strategically about the use of information technology. As you learned in an earlier unit, using social media technologies is crucial for organizations' technology (and marketing) strategies. In this unit, you will focus on developing a strategy for using social media in your organization.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 7 hours.

    • Upon successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

      • compare and contrast different theories of information systems strategies;
      • explain the strategic planning process; and
      • create an information systems strategy.

    • 6.1: Theories of Information Systems Strategies

      • book icon
        Introduction to Strategy and Technology Book
        Students must
        Mark as done

        The introduction to this chapter provides an overview of the many aspects of business that managers must consider when setting an information systems strategy. The strategies discussed are operational effectiveness, fast follower, first mover, and strategic positioning. Each strategy, plus any others you may be able to identify, has its strengths and weaknesses.

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        Developing a Mobile Strategy to Reach Clients Page
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        Mark as done

        In this case, a company focused heavily on different ways to reach their customer. Ultimately, the company spent little time planning how to engage or retain customers after they have accessed the mobile site. What are the pros and cons of this mobile strategy?

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        3 Steps to Creating an Effective Mobile App Strategy Page
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        Mark as done

        This case discusses the use of a mobile application and a mobile-friendly web presence. This strategy goes beyond reaching customers and starts considering how to engage with them. What are the pros and cons of mobilizing your content marketing?

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        Developing a Mobile Strategy that Works Page
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        Mark as done

        This case focuses on the types of devices being used, where they are being used, and how they are being used. What are the pros and cons of having a very detailed mobile strategy?

    • 6.2: The Strategic Planning Process

      • book icon
        Strategic Planning Book
        Students must
        Mark as done

        Read this chapter, which serves as a guide on writing a strategic plan by guiding you through the situation analysis and developing an organizational strategy formulation. The authors note that "the strategies and actions implemented at the functional (department) level must be consistent with and help an organization achieve its objectives at both the business and corporate levels and vice versa". In practical terms, think about implementing a new IT strategy at a medium-sized firm of 20–199 employees. Who would need to be involved in the planning and implementing the strategy?

    • 6.3: Developing an IT Strategy

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        Creating Your Own Technology Plan Page
        Students must
        Mark as done

        Watch this detailed, step-by-step plan to create your own technology plan. The speaker covers hardware, software, competitive strategies, and cloud computing. 

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        Activity: Develop Your Own Social Media Strategy Book
        Students must
        Mark as done

        Download and complete this ungraded activity.