A Framework for Planning E-Business Information Systems: A Research Proposal

E-business rests upon the foundation of a class of information systems that we call E-business Information Systems (EBIS). These systems are different from traditional client-server systems in the sense that they are based upon the ubiquitous Web technologies and are highly scalable. In this research we look at two dimensions and three sub-dimensions each of EBIS, namely, information integration and timeliness of information and develop a framework for planning for such systems. We will develop a detailed planning methodology based on the principles laid out in the framework. This methodology will identify key design and evaluation criteria for different types of EBIS applications. It is further proposed that the methodology will be validated through retrospective analysis of the processes used in organizations that have developed different types of EBIS and through action research where the methodology will be used in EBIS projects.