Why do companies often struggle with Information Systems Implementation?

Hi everyone, 

This week I researched 'why companies often struggle with Information Systems Implementation?'

If you need a refresher on 'Information Systems', or may not have heard about them before. Be sure the check out this short video, which clearly outlines what information systems are and how they are used. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qujsd4vkqFI

Now after that quick refresher, I will discuss several reasons as to why companies may struggle when implementing these new information systems.

Lack of strategy/planning:

Companies need to lay out a strategy/plan, focusing on the areas that implementing new information systems may impact. These can range from employees, organisational structure and funding/budget. If companies plan ahead of time and determine how to combat the struggles they may face, it can lead to a smoother experience when implementing them. (Faris, 2019). Companies need to ensure that the information system they are planning around is up to date and suitable for their company. (Fruhlinger, 2021) outlined that, in 2020, CitiBank's information system was outdated and caused a half-billion dollar loss.   

Attracting and retaining a skilled workforce:

When implementing new information systems current staff will have to be welcomed to the new systems through training. With training, it can take several weeks for staff to become efficient at operating the systems. This can lead to a lack of overall output from a company due to staff not being sufficiently trained. Changes of information systems within a company can lead to staff losing their confidence, losing their routines and making them feel less comfort in their workspace. Companies may also need to hire new staff, these potential employees being individuals who are skilled at using the newly implemented information systems. (Faris, 2019).

Compatibility and consistency:

Companies need to ensure that the information system they choose is compatible with their company. This can stem from whether or not the system is compatible with other systems used throughout the company, or if the system is compatible with the work the company intends to do with the systems. Compatibility issues can lead to a lack of consistency in the company with employees reverting back to old systems in order to get work completed. This can lead to a mix-up or confusion of information/data. (Ibexa, 2023).

Financial resources:

Companies need to cover the cost of forming a strategy/plan, the cost of the information systems, the cost of applying the information systems, the cost of training staff and many more. Along with the expenses companies will have to cover, there is also potential income that companies may lose during the process of applying the systems and training staff. (Malak, 2023). According to a survey carried out by (Campion & Campion, 2021), the average employee spends 45 hours every two years learning new information systems. This process may slow down their operation as a whole and therefore, may reduce income. 

Information systems evolving:

Information systems are evolving at a high rate in modern society. This comes from new ideas, research and projects being carried out. These lead to information systems requiring updates and eventually being outdated. Companies should look for information systems which are already a step ahead in a market with not many competitors. This will provide the company with assurance of longevity and will assure that possible struggles can be reduced. Microsoft Office is an example of this. (Edwards, 2019)

Let me know in the comment below your thoughts on this discussion and if you use any information systems in your workplace. 

That's all for me in this blog. Thanks for reading! If you are interested in reading more of my blogs be sure to check out my previous blog post titled 'Ireland as a Digital Economy'. 

See you next time!