Buying Complex IT Systems: Computer System Procurement for Non-Technical Managers

This book is intended to be a practical manual for senior leaders in small-to-medium businesses that will teach them how to buy IT systems effectively, to transform the non-IT senior leadership personnel into more informed and capable buyers. It highlights problem areas and offers solutions to eliminate them, using the author's extensive experience to make it more likely that the reader will buy the right system at the right price.

Format: Hardback
Length: 196 pages
Publication date: 12 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Many of us have encountered instances where IT systems at work fail to function optimally or exacerbate existing problems. Even if we have been fortunate to have access to well-designed and reliable IT systems, it is not uncommon to hear about IT systems experiencing downtime, being slow, or malfunctioning in the media or our daily lives. While using IT systems that fall short of optimal performance can be inconvenient for businesses, purchasing an IT system that is not suited for its intended purpose can have catastrophic consequences for the business itself and the careers of its employees.

The senior team of any business possesses extensive knowledge about their specific business or market, but their role does not involve implementing IT systems. This inherent unfairness in IT systems procurement arises because it becomes relatively easy for buyers, who may not have extensive IT expertise, to make incorrect purchases at inflated prices. Essentially, the buyers are amateurs, while the sellers are professionals. This mismatch is a primary cause of most IT systems failures, which can cost a company millions of dollars and negatively impact its operations.

This book aims to serve as a practical guide for senior leaders in small-to-medium businesses, empowering them to make informed IT system purchases. It recognizes the numerous pitfalls that can hinder a business, even when dealing with reputable sellers. By providing solutions to address these problem areas, the book aims to increase the likelihood of the reader selecting the right system at the right price. The author draws upon his extensive experience to identify and address potential issues, ensuring that the reader gains valuable insights and practical guidance for successful IT systems procurement.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032548494