2.3 Organization Perspective

	In simple terms an organization is the combination of a group of people and resources that work in a structured manner to achieve set goals (see Figure 2.3).
	This is an interesting IS perspective as people are conscious of the nature of business environments in the real world.
	The human involvement is acknowledged within the IS in place as technology by itself is not the drive for better decision making and profitability of the business.
	Technology has to be accompanied by human capability for it to be useful at all.
	The organizational structure entailing rights and responsibilities has to be clear.

This allows for the appropriate IS to be deployed according to the organizational need at the different levels of the organizational hierarchy.

	IS should also be compatible with the type of business and the main business functions.
	A product-based business (a supermarket for example) might require a different combination of IS in comparison to a service-based business (a travel agent for example).
	In addition to the main business functions, IS should take account of the culture within a business.
	This can be the general belief and drive of the business environment.

2.3 Organization Perspective

	It can be documented or simply observed and practiced within the organization. IS has to be in line with the organizational culture to be effective and of value.
	Adopting information systems can lead to changes in the roles and responsibilities within an organization.

E.g., managers could have more involvement in the processes being performed by staff lower in organization's hierarchy.

As discussed in Lecture 1, a flatter hierarchical structure can be established based on teams can be effectively supported when introducing information systems that support communication, coordination and monitoring within an organization.

2.3 Organization Perspective

Figure 2.3 Levels in a Firm