ITM-301 Module 2 CA
In this case we investigate the technology-related decision making in organizations.
We start by introducing the objective of governance specific to the information technology function and services.
Next, we offer to you the fundamental battle in technology management—the constant tug-of-war between centralization and decentralization.
We then provide several examples of how real-world organizations have reconciled their choices in how to structure themselves.
Next, we present an overview of decision making processes and some of the methods for making decisions.
Finally, we present insight into the complexity of real-world choices highlight the politics of information
Before writing-up the essay for this case, read and review the following documents (we recommend in this same order):
Objective of IT governance: http://www.intosaiitaudit.org/intoit_articles/25_p30top35.pdf
Centralization versus Decentralization:
http://www.ppcwg.org/images/files/Federated%20Model%20White%20Paper.pdf
Different models / Roundtable discussion: http://net.educause.edu/ir/library/pdf/EDU03184.pdf
IT Governance Structure for a public child-welfare agency:
http://www.ppcwg.org/information-management-key-processes-governance-structure.html
University of South Florida IT Governance Structure:
http://generalcounsel.usf.edu/policies-and-procedures/pdfs/policy-0-512.pdf
Overview of Decision Making: http://www.enotes.com/business-finance-encyclopedia/decision-making
Main methods of business decision-making: http://tutor2u.net/business/organisation/decisionmaking.htm
Write a 4-5 page essay describing the IT governance structure and decision-making processes in your organization. Include a discussion on the strengths and weaknesses of your organization’s circumstances and present and justify one specific improvement you would make to either the structure or a process; be sure to apply the concepts and use the terminology provided in the readings.
ITM301 (SLP 2)
Principles of Information in Business and Organization
One of the most critical problems faced by the information technology department in virtually every organization is how to provide effective help to end-users facing problems with the technology. The help desk is the point at which every frustration, every concern, and every mistake known to humanity is brought for resolution. Typically staffed by lower-level and often new personnel, help desks often have a reputation for minimal service and buck-passing. It shouldn’t be this way, and doesn’t have to be; there’s a lot of information out there about how to effectively manage and coordinate help services, and a great deal of information about how important is to do so. But like many aspects of IT, this knowledge doesn’t always make it into the field in many organizations.
A while ago, TechRepublic ran a series on how to set up and manage help desks. You can read the series here:
“Setting up a successful help desk–physical considerations”
(http://www.techrepublic.com/article/setting-up-a-successful-help-desk-physical-considerations/) and
“Try these efficiency strategies when setting up a successful help desk”
(http://www.techrepublic.com/article/try-these-efficiency-strategies-when-setting-up-a-successful-help-desk/).
For this SLP you are expected to evaluate in a 2-3 page paper, the best strategies for a successful help desk within an organization. Identify three (3) best practices and provide some examples on how and why those strategies are important. Because this is a SLP, you are expected to discuss the topic with practical approach.
Do you have experiences that you can describe about user support (as a user or as an IT person)?
Why were they good or bad?
What suggestions do you have?
