It Matters

Alicia Durden

Leah Gilbert

Shannon Franklin Discussion # 1

Question 1:

To what extent do you agree with Carr’s assertion that companies should focus on controlling IT cost? Give reasons.

I do not agree with Carr’s assertion that companies should focus on controlling IT cost because Carr does not mention the procedures and processes behind business activities that IT supports. These procedures evolve over years and are woven into the organizational fabric. These procedures are an asset that cannot be bought as a commodity. Secondly, Carr does not mention enterprise data which is the life and blood of corporate IT. The integration and maintenance of enterprise data over the long term is not a commodity to be purchased off a vendor’s shelf.

Question 2:

Regarding implementing IT, is it prudent to be a follower rather than a leader? Why or why not?

Yes. It is more prudent to be a follower when it comes to Infrastructural technologies. According to the article, "Although more complex than its predecessors, IT has all the hallmarks of an infrastructural technology."(HBR 7) "Infrastructural technologies, in contrast, offer far more value when shared than when used in isolation."(HBR 6) The article also states, "Moore's Lay guarantees that the longer you wait to make an IT purchase, the more you'll get for your money. And waiting will decrease your risk of buying something technology flawed or doomed to rapid obsolescence."(HBR 11).

Question 3:

Give some arguments on why Carr is wrong.

I noticed the article was written in 2003, which means technology wasn't as broad as it is today. Carr is wrong about companies over spending on IT and that the competitive advantage to be gained by tech

investments was shrinking as technology became more commoditized and accessible to everyone. As of today Carr was totally wrong because technology is a must in today's world. Technology is one of the biggest investments you can invest in. For example Google, all of apple products...