AWWA IMT61451

This paper focuses on the intersection of information technology and thebusiness processes it supports. The key issue addressed is how to capitalize onthe use of technology to leverage creative new business models.Rapid advancements in technical performance are certainly not new. However,new paradigms are created by the emergence of more universal standards (e.g.the Internet) and the packaging of comprehensive, flexible applications thatradically reduce the need for custom programming. These shifts change theskills required to implement technology. For example, demands for programmingare often replaced by the requirement to develop enterprise data models and tointegrate packaged applications into the resulting architecture. These changesare creating new models for IT support with corresponding changes in roles of ITdepartments, their user communities, and the external vendors that assist them.Utilities face a second challenge. Concurrent with the emergence of newtechnology models is the expanding array of utility business models. Driven byderegulation, privatization, and increasing pressure on local budgets, newbusiness models have exploded the demand for information and the toolsneeded to use information effectively. The challenge is to meet expandingtechnology requirements without a corresponding growth in cost.The paper discusses the impact of changes in business and technology;proposes structured methods to evaluate the unique requirements of individualcompanies; and the development of cost-effective solutions to meet thoserequirements. It also outlines the impact on organizational models to beconsidered as part of the business/technology optimization process. Includes table, figures.

Product Details

Edition:

Vol. - No.

Published:

04/01/2005

Number of Pages:

17

File Size:

1 file , 190 KB