IT alignment and firm performance in small manufacturing firms

IT Alignment: What Have We Learned?

“…In addition, specifying one type of fit conceptually and then using measures designed for another type of fit introduces errors. Cragg et al (2002) provide evidence of inconsistent results from two different measurement approaches, the matching perspective and the moderation perspective. They also argue the importance of selecting appropriate alignment models.…”

“…The Chan et al (1997) study provides empirical support for modeling IT strategic alignment using a moderation or synergistic approach rather than a simple matching or mirroring approach. Assessing the alignment of business strategy and IT strategy based on the combination of STROBE and STROIS 5 has subsequently been carried out by others (e.g., Ma and Burn, 1998;Cragg et al, 2002). In the Cragg et al (2002) study, to maximize related benefits, IT alignment was modeled as the interaction between business strategy and IT strategy (i.e., as a moderation variable), rather than as a simple match between the two.…”

“…Assessing the alignment of business strategy and IT strategy based on the combination of STROBE and STROIS 5 has subsequently been carried out by others (e.g., Ma and Burn, 1998;Cragg et al, 2002). In the Cragg et al (2002) study, to maximize related benefits, IT alignment was modeled as the interaction between business strategy and IT strategy (i.e., as a moderation variable), rather than as a simple match between the two. Questionnaire items: Many IT studies have simply posed the question, 'On a scale of 1-5, how do you rate IT alignment in your organization?'…”

“…Clearly defined business goals and vision are often first steps in an alignment process. In a study of small manufacturers, Cragg et al (2002) found that many of the manufacturers had achieved a high degree of alignment between their business strategy and IT. While two-thirds of the sample had a written business plan, only a quarter had formalized their IT strategy.…”

The contribution of the internet to the strategic positioning of small businesses in the tourism industry

“…These characteristics have been identified in research on small businesses as they highlight not only the importance of the owner-manager in decision-making, especially regarding the choice of information technologies (Bergeron et al, 2001;Cragg et al, 2002;Monnoyer-Bordered, 2003, Ghobakhloo, M. andHong Tang, S., 2013), but also the importance of the managers' perception of the choices made (Bergeron et al, 2001) and their interest for technology (Aldebert and Guegen, 2009;Spencer et al, 2012). Their interest in ICT is driven by practical results on process improvement and performance (Uwizeyemungu and Raymond, 2011;Connolly, 2005).…”