A fractal perspective on competencies necessary for managing information systems
by Gurpreet Dhillon, Frances Fabian
International Journal of Technology Management (IJTM), Vol. 31, No. 1/2, 2005

Abstract: In this paper, we present a view of the necessary skill set for managing information technology (IT) in organisations. Our assessment is based on viewing this task as part of managing within a nonlinear complex system. While managing IT in nonlinear complex systems, managers accept that control is neither achievable nor desirable. Rather, IT systems are conceptualised as embodying a fractal quality in which they must be customised to reflect the most essential aspects of the organisation's business policies. The manager's job becomes one of assessing whether there is a continued coherence between what the changing organisation is doing and what the system can provide, and thus embodies special abilities of pattern recognition and adaptability.

Online publication date: Wed, 30-Mar-2005

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