This document discusses how information systems can help solve business problems. It provides examples of major business applications of information systems like e-commerce, distance learning, and cloud computing. It also outlines the problem-solving process as involving problem identification, solution design, choice, implementation, and continuous feedback. Critical thinking is important to problem solving, involving maintaining doubt, considering different perspectives, testing alternatives, and being aware of limitations. Information systems can help businesses achieve their objectives by presenting solutions to challenges. The document examines how information systems will affect various business careers.

1. 1.1 © 2007 by Prentice Hall
Solving Business
Problems with
Information Systems

2. 1.2 © 2007 by Prentice Hall
• E-Commerce & E-Marketing
• Distance Learning
• Videos on Demand (PPV)
• Information Sharing & Communication (Social media)
• Video Conferencing
• E-Banking
• Global Positioning System (GPS)
• Wireless Communication Technologies
• Cloud Computing
• Online Recruitment
Major Business Applications (Solutions) Provided by IS
Solving Business Problems with Information System

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• Few business problems are simple or
straightforward
• Most business problems involve a number of major
factors that can be categorized as organization,
technology, and people
The Problem-Solving Approach
Solving Business Problems with Information System

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• Problem identification
• Solution design
• Choice
• Implementation
• Problem solving is a process, not an event
A Model of the Problem-Solving Process
Solving Business Problems with Information System

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Problem Solving Is a Continuous Four-Step Process
During implementation
and thereafter, the
outcome must be
continually measured and
the information about how
well the solution is working
is fed back to the problem
solvers. In this way, the
identification of the
problem can change over
time, solutions can be
changed, and new choices
made, all based on
experience.
Solving Business Problems with Information System

6. 1.6 © 2007 by Prentice Hall
• Four elements of critical thinking:
• Maintaining doubt and suspending judgment
• Being aware of different perspectives
• Testing alternatives and letting experience guide
• Being aware of organizational and personal limitations
The Role of Critical Thinking in Problem Solving
Solving Business Problems with Information System

7. 1.7 © 2007 by Prentice Hall
• When firms cannot achieve their business
objectives, these objectives become challenges
• Information systems often present solutions to
these challenges
The Connection Between Business Objectives,
Problems, and Solutions
Solving Business Problems with Information System

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• Accounting
• Finance
• Marketing
• Operations Management in Services and
Manufacturing
• Outsourcing
How Information Systems Will Affect Business Careers
Solving Business Problems with Information System

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A Top Information Manager Puts Business
Before Technology
• Read the Focus on People and then discuss the
following questions:
• What problems and challenges does Sonic face?
• How is it trying to solve these problems?
• What alternative solutions are available?
• Is CIO Mitchell Gregory a good problem solver for this
company?
• Why or why not?
Solving Business Problems with Information System

10. 1.10 © 2007 by Prentice Hall
Interactive Session: Sonic Corporation
Solving Business Problems with Information System
• Visit Sonic’s Web site at www.sonicdrivein.com
• How does Sonic’s Web site enhance its business?
• Who is the target audience of the Web site? Is there
more than one target audience?
• What would make the Web site better?
• How does Sonic’s Web site compare to the sites of
its competitors, such as McDonald’s, Burger King,
Wendy’s, Checkers, and Jack in the Box?