San Jose State University

BUS 119B-Business Strategy and Information Systems

Prerequisites: Restricted to Graduating Seniors Only; 100W, completion of Bus 92, 93, 111, 112 with a minimal grade of "C"; should be taken in last semester before graduation.

Catalog Description:

Analysis of effective use of information systems within a business enterprise, with emphasis on gaining a competitive advantage. Integration of information systems with business strategy, financial justification, personnel and organizational considerations are highlighted. 3 credits.

Detailed Course Description:

This course considers the use of information systems to support the strategies and tactics of a business in its endeavor to achieve a high level of success. The successful use of information systems by a business enterprise to accomplish this is often an elusive goal. Why some organizations are very successful while others experience frustration will be evaluated. Students should gain an understanding of and an appreciation for the use of information systems to obtain organizational efficiencies, increase individual effectiveness, and/or gain a competitive advantage.

In today's global economy, the appropriate role and use of information technology must be considered. Information systems are being used to shape products and services, companies, industries -- even countries! Technological change, including information systems, can be the most prominent of all the strategic factors in transforming the rules of competition, operating an organization, and attaining organizational success.

Topics addressed include the global business environment, business drivers, Porter's Competitive Forces Model, strategic information systems, the information systems organization and function, the business value of information systems, reengineering and TQM, information systems as a catalyst for organizational change, and change management.

Prerequisite Concepts and Skills:

To successfully complete this course, a student needs the following knowledge and skills:

  1. Ability to apply information systems to solve business problems, i.e., an understanding of management challenges and the fundamentals of systems analysis and design, data management, and telecommunications.
  2. Excellent written communication skills, including report writing and the use of library research sources.
  3. Ability to use word-processing, presentation, and spreadsheet tools to craft a formal report.

Learning Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  1. Clearly and specifically explain what the MIS concentration has prepared them to accomplish in a wide variety of MIS positions.
  2. Articulate the multiple roles of information systems within an enterprise, both conceptually and in terms of specific company examples.
  3. Conduct a systematic, structured analysis of the factors in using information systems successfully.
  4. Provide specific company examples of the use of information systems in support of organizational efficiency, effectiveness, and competitiveness.
  5. Explain concepts related to and the implications of interorganizational information systems.
  6. Explain how the global economy is driving the need for information technology to facilitate timely communication and coordination between business partners.
  7. Discuss information systems management issues, such as organization and personnel, user relationships, financial justification, integration of IS and business strategies, and the role of information systems in reengineering and TQM.

Instructional Material:

  1. Textbook -- will vary by instructor, but should emphasize the use of information systems in a business environment and business and information systems management issues. Will include both concepts and specific, timely company examples.
  2. Course reader comprised of current articles from business periodicals.