Thierauf's work develops a number of interesting and potentially
useful approaches to management information systems (MIS) practice.
The author presents a number of techniques (some well known, others
more recent) that practicing MIS managers may adopt to facilitate
effective MIS planning for the 1990's by focusing on problem
finding rather than on problem solving. A primary recommendation of
Thierauf's is the restructuring of the MIS organization using a
functional (end-user) departmental approach. Discussed at length
are various issues relevant to this restructuring, such as
staffing, motivating MIS personnel and end users, and MIS soft'
controls. Recommended for upper-level undergraduate and graduate
students as well as practicing managers and MIS specialists.
"Choice"
With new developments in hardware and software, MIS managers are
increasingly faced with the need to develop more sophisticated
managerial--as opposed to purely technical--skills. Here, an
acknowledged expert in the field of information systems draws on
his own original research and experience to develop a set of
workable strategies and techniques that MIS managers can use to
function more effectively as we move into the next decade. Thierauf
identifies probable trends in the field in coming years and
outlines ways in which MIS managers can anticipate predictable
problems, apply improved management skills to the end-user
interface, and effectively motivate MIS personnel.
Thierauf concentrates particularly on four major areas of
managerial responsibility: planning, organizing, motivating, and
controlling. In planning, he shows how to use problem-finding
techniques to anticipate and solve potential problems between MIS
personnel and end-users. To help reduce this conflict, Thierauf
argues, there is a need for a new direction in organizing MIS
departments. He proposes bringing MIS and end-use departments
together by using a functional departmental approach. In motivating
MIS personnel, there is need to go beyond self-actualization by
emphasizing mutual actualization as well as self donation. Finally,
in the area of control, Thierauf advocates the use of soft controls
to replace stringent controls that have had a tendency to restrict
personal freedom on the job. A common thread througout the
discussion is a focus on effective guidelines for the MIS manager
to follow in order to come to grips with the changing realities of
the 1990s.
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