tailieunhanh - Make, buy or rent decision for information systems in the heavy engineering industry

The study focuses on the use of information systems in the Heavy Engineering industry in South Africa and the decision to make, buy or rent information systems. Special focus was placed on the factors that influence the decision to make, buy or rent information systems. It is undeniable that changes in the competitive environment, such as technological advances and globalisation, are driving organisations toward new ways of operating. In striving to become flexible, lean, and more competitive, organisations have been increasingly swift to externalise support service functions. | Make buy or rent decision for information systems in the heavy engineering industry by Thomas Francois Matthee 21919968 Mini-dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree MASTERS OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION at the Potchefstroom Business School of the North-West University Study Leader Mr. JC Coetzee POTCHEFSTROOM October 2011 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I want to acknowledge the following persons for assisting me during the writing of this mini-dissertation My Heavenly Father for giving me this unique opportunity. My wife Celestê for her patience and understanding throughout the . studies. My children Francois and Aden for putting up with daddy s long periods of absence. My study leader Mr . Coetzee for his invaluable assistance patience motivation and guidance. Mari Van Reenen from the North-West University Statistical department for her assistance and guidance. The members of my study group who guided me through on my shortfalls and supported me when necessary. To my employer for funding my studies and also for all their invaluable assistance patience motivation and guidance. All the respondents to the survey questionnaire for their valuable input. All family friends and colleagues for their interest throughout my studies. ii ABSTRACT The study focuses on the use of information systems in the Heavy Engineering industry in South Africa and the decision to make buy or rent information systems. Special focus was placed on the factors that influence the decision to make buy or rent information systems. It is undeniable that changes in the competitive environment such as technological advances and globalisation are driving organisations toward new ways of operating. In striving to become flexible lean and more competitive organisations have been increasingly swift to externalise support service functions. Every organisation must adapt to the current economic environment the technology available in its industry and consider the risk and .