Introduction
In pursuit of implementing an information technology, there are common aspects, such as information lag, that arise and are sometimes inevitable considering that the information system of technology is implemented in an environment that is not used to information technology. Such information lag was evidenced in the city of Montreal. In order to run various information systems, the aspect of management of the very information is very crucial in such a case.
As a matter of fact, information lag can be described as a delay created by the system before the information is made available to the end-users. In this case, the system is described as ineffective as it does not fulfill its main goal within the given organization. Therefore, improving information management within the city was the primary objective. In such a case, the Nolan model was critical in improving the situation. The use of the Nolan model in eliminating the information lag below is discussed (Watkins, 2012).
The use of the Nolan Model to eliminate information lag
The first phase of Nolan model is the initiation stage. At this stage, the director of information technology is to introduce the information system technology as a new concept to the city. The information system should prove that it aims to ensure there is a better management approach to information, and as such it requires new technology to be implemented.
During the initiation stage, the director of information systems should create awareness among various departments involved. In addition, information technology experts must be sourced or availed to oversee the implementation of the information system. A team of information technology personnel should undergo training to be able later to perform an information technology planning. This planning entails identifying applications to be used to ensure the system is effective in terms of time and cost reduction.
The second phase is known as a contagion stage. The contagion stage eliminates the existing information system. Apparently, this oversees opposition from many of the employees, who feel alienated by the new system. The new system may lead to adoption of new and complex applications. Consequently, running of these applications requires professionals to be employed. During this stage, the management plays a critical role in explaining the significance of a new system to the staff.
The third phase of the Nolan model is known as the control stage. During this stage, information lag is eliminated by ensuring that there are check-ups of time and cost spent on the system. For example, a need to control the cost of operating various computers and networks becomes of paramount importance.
Then control improves the flexibility of data to be processed. Nevertheless, this stage ensures that a management control policy or mechanism is implemented to eliminate end-user’s frustrations. The mechanisms include central controls to ensure compatibility of applications, mostly done by IT professionals.
The fourth stage of the model is integration stage. This stage ensures that the new system is integrated with the already existing one. Moreover, the system must be user-friendly in order to promote control. By the onset of this stage, data processing is harnessed, and accountability in information management is evidenced.
The fifth phase is known as data administration stage. This stage emphasizes more on managing data that is being processed. This stage ensures that information is used according to its purpose. Moreover, data processing and storage are performed at this stage.
The sixth and the final stage is called maturity stage. This stage gives a general reflection of information management from its well-organized information systems. The organization starts to use information in implementing its key strategies. Moreover, decision making is influenced by available information.
For the above to be achievable, an information technology learning program can be used to ensure there is a smooth transition of a new system with a co-operation.
Technology conversion and reforms
Technology conversion is an effective tool in implementing reforms. In order to engage the public in a broader perspective, the availability of information should be ensured. New technology systems like Internet have harnessed interaction between humans, and as such they can be used in the Montreal case study.
In such a case, the use of blogs and website is very important. In the case of the public enterprise, making available information that relates to enterprise is undeniably important. This offers unforeseen opportunities that many people would not have been given unless the information available. As a matter of fact, these will make the elimination of the information lag justifiable, considering the benefits that will emanate from the use of information system management.
Managers’ role in implementing information systems
It is important that the management department fulfills its critical role in ensuring information systems are implemented. In this case, management responsibility in planning, controlling and implementing is critical (Rothwell, 2001). Moreover, managers are supposed to influence other staff members to accept that information systems are beneficial. Many of the employees are supposed to be assured of their job security. In this case, managers should use their skills to resolve crisis and influence the employees.
References
Rothwell, W., J. (2001). Workplace learning and performance roles: The manager and the changer leader. Washington, WA: American Society for Trading and Development.
Watkins, J. (2012). Information technology, organizations and people: Transformations in the UK retail financial services. New York, NY: Routledge