Title: E-business cross-functional alignment: the integration of processes and applications

Authors: Cain Evans, Eric Shiu

Addresses: Department of Computing, University of Central England in Birmingham, UK. ' Business School, University of Birmingham, UK

Abstract: In this paper, we present two new models into the e-business-IT alignment and integration debate, namely, the Process Alignment Dynamics Model (PADM) and the Holistic Alignment Model (HAM) that supports it. The e-business revolution has already paid dividends to managers and customers alike with the integration of front-end internet systems with both middle-ware and back-end technologies. With the PADM, a two-step approach is advised whereby an alignment programme incorporates two sub-components: General Process Aligning (GPA) and Specific Process Aligning (SPA). Succeeding the PADM is the higher-level HAM that aims to improve the alignment and integration of applications and processes on an enterprise-wide basis.

Keywords: process integration; application integration; e-business alignment; enterprise-wide systems; strategic alignment models; SAM; electronic business.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEB.2006.010868

International Journal of Electronic Business, 2006 Vol.4 No.3/4, pp.302 - 319

Published online: 08 Sep 2006 *

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