Chapter 12 Ethical and Social Issues in Information Systems
Essay Questions:
1. Would you, as a manager, approve the implementation of a new information system that predicted very few
tangible benefits but could provide potentially very high intangible benefits? What arguments would you use
to prove your point either way?
2. Discuss the limitations of the financial models described in your textbook. Why is the use of these models
not always indicated for investments involving information technology?
3. Describe portfolio analysis, scoring models, the real options pricing model, and the knowledge value added
approach. Do you think these models are better for information systems projects than the traditional
financial models? Support your answer.
4. Though the use of information technology is a given in today’s business arena, there are arguments that
productivity has not been enhanced in the service sector. Discuss this issue, with examples to illustrate your
points.
5. List and explain the four problem areas, identified by your text, that contribute to system failure.
6. Discuss the four behavioral and organizational issues that can lead to implementation success or failure.
Why do you think these issues are so often minimized or not addressed?
7. Describe what is meant by the term “user-designer communications gap.” Do you think this gap is
increasing, decreasing, or never existed? Support your answer.
8. Why are so many projects managed so poorly? What do you think can be done about it?
9. Discuss the role of the information systems managers in the implementation of mergers and acquisitions.
10. List and define the four techniques or tools available to those involved in the implementation process.
Under which circumstances is each one useful?
