The need to optimize MIS on a global basis

Article Abstract:

A fictional case involving a company attempting to create a centralized management information system (MIS) is presented. The consumer products division of the firm had already invested millions in its effort to build an MIS that would meet the information needs of national and regional operating units, as well as those of headquarters. Unfortunately, successive changes in top management hindered such efforts since the new executives had their own ideas regarding the MIS. Because of this lack of direction, the different operating units developed their own systems that varied in sophistication and reliability. The newly appointed CEO realized that the situation could not continue and was planning the creation of a consolidated global management decision support system. Although this system would satisfy the firm's need, it would be costly, time-consuming and even unfavorable for units satisfied with their own systems. A possible solution to this dilemma is discussed.

Management, Information technology, Management information systems

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Expensive bargain

Article Abstract:

An analysis of a hypothetical quality production planning problem is presented. The problem involves a firm's acquisition of cut-price second-hand equipment from a bankrupt sister-company and its subsequent decision to negotiate a contract to fill an outstanding order of the bankrupt firm. The contract proves problematic after technical problems affect the production department's ability to meet the quality standards specified on time. The analysis of the problem yields the conclusion that the firm should have ensured that product specifications could be met before negotiation of the contract. It also suggests that a controlled testing program should have been used as a cost-effective way of testing.

Methods, Column, Quality control, Production planning

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