Dissertations / Theses: 'Strategic Alignment'

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Jansson, Daniel, and Joel Karlsson. "Strategic Alignment and its influence on Purchasers : Propositions for constructing the strategic alignment." Thesis, Högskolan i Jönköping, Internationella Handelshögskolan, 2016. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:hj:diva-30811.

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Purpose The purpose of this research is to contribute towards a deeper understanding of the strategic alignments influence on the purchaser and how the alignment can be constructed to be more supportive for the purchaser. Methodology The empirical data were collected through interviews and document studies. A qualitative approach was used to get an in-depth understanding of the strategic alignment and its influence on the purchaser. The conclusions drawn in this study are based on the empirical findings and the constructed theoretical framework. Findings The authors identify 12 enablers/disablers that influence the purchaser’s ability to make strategically aligned decisions. Furthermore, the authors have conducted five propositions on what firms should consider when constructing their strategic alignment in order to enable the purchaser to make strategically aligned decisions Research limitations This research will be limited to the purchasing function and it will only embrace the internal integration connected to purchase. Thereby, the external orientation e.g. the effects from the supply-chain on the purchasing function and other effecting contexts will be outside the scope of this research. Implications This research provides a model that illustrates the areas connected to strategic alignment and enables both managers and researchers to map the construction of the strategic alignment in an easy and visualized manner. Together with the enablers/disablers and propositions managers and researchers will be able to recognize potential pitfalls and opportunities regarding the construction of firm’s strategic alignment. Originality / value To the researchers knowledge this is the first research that provides an in-depth understanding of how the strategic alignment influences the purchasers ability to make strategically aligned decisions.

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Mera, Ruiz De Lira Jesus. "THE STRATEGIC ROLE OF THE PURCHASING FUNCTION - STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT." Thesis, KTH, Industriell ekonomi och organisation (Inst.), 2011. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:kth:diva-91356.

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Problem. The importance of strategic alignment between the purchasing and the firm strategy has increased in recent years because it has been pointed out as a mean to improve business performance. However, the use of different sourcing strategies depending on the characteristics of the components that firms are purchasing has not been considered when analyzing strategic alignment. That establishes a lot of limitations to the results obtained in previous analyses about strategic alignment. Purpose. The aim of this master thesis is to analyze empirically the consequences that the strategic alignment of the purchasing function with the firm strategy has on business performing overcoming previous limitations. In order to do so, sourcing strategies will be distinguished through Kraljic’s matrix. Methodology. A data sample collected through the International Purchasing Survey (IPS) has been used to the development of this master thesis. It consists of 429 firms from 9 European countries, Canada and USA. Two hypotheses were tested by multiple regression analyses. One of them verifies the relationship between strategic alignment business performance and the other one the link between the purchasing role and strategic alignment. In order to draw conclusions, both hypotheses were tested on the four purchasing categories of Kraljic’s matrix. Findings. Results show that business performance is affected positively by strategic alignment only for the category "strategic items" of Kraljic’s matrix. They also show that an active participation of the purchasing function on the overall firm strategy can promote strategic alignment for strategic items. Research limitations. It is difficult to establish a consistent index to measure strategic alignment. It is also hard to find all the factors that influence strategic alignment. Further research is needed on these themes. Practical implications. Companies have been encouraged to integrate the whole purchasing function into the firm strategy to improve business performance through strategic alignment. However, the positive economic effects of this integration can’t be generalized. The implementation of those activities that help integrate the purchasing function is a strategy recommended only when strategic items are involved. It is justified by the fact that it is the only quadrant where business performance can be improved through strategic alignment.

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Anthonisz, Angela Jean. "Strategic alignment or non-alignment : the management of human capital in Dubai." Thesis, University of Derby, 2018. http://hdl.handle.net/10545/623047.

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This thesis focuses on the international hotel industry as part of the global economy and examines the implications that the strategic management of human capital has within the five-star sector of the hotel industry in Dubai, an emirate of the United Arab Emirates, and an economy based on the service sector. It examines the macro environmental factors influencing the potential strategic directions of two recognized international five-star hotel brands and considers the challenges this creates for the alignment of strategy, and the implications this has for management of human capital(people) as a key determinant of success that enhances organisational outcomes. In selecting this area of research, the author has adopted a grounded theory approach to the generation of new knowledge, allowing the literature to be guided by concerns raised by hotel managers and industry consultants working in the context of Dubai. This approach led to the employment of a case study method, through which the key influences of organisational culture and ownership are considered. Two international hotel chains were identified to represent the two strategic modes of entry into the destination. The first case being a locally owned and managed chain with 7 hotels in Dubai. The second case is a European chain operating 6 hotel properties under management contract in Dubai, with 6 different owners from the Middle East. Both companies operate within the luxury five-star market that is so prevalent in Dubai. The hospitality industry, by definition, relies heavily on human capital, both as a resource and a capability that may allow for the development of competitive advantage. However, the dynamics of the Dubai hotel environment, the strength of the Arab cultural values and the organisational conditions that exist in Dubai present HR managers with a number of unique challenges, including high levels of pastoral care, and approaches to managing the workforce that may be at odds with traditional ‘Western’ ideals. This thesis adds to the existing debate on the value and utilisation of existing theoretical frameworks attached to the alignment of strategy and the implications for managing human capital in the face of globalisation and presents a model of their application in a city that is characterised by power and control, predictability and change aversion.

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Bhansali, Neera, and nbhansali@yahoo com. "Strategic Alignment in Data Warehouses Two Case Studies." RMIT University. Business Information Technology, 2007. http://adt.lib.rmit.edu.au/adt/public/adt-VIT20080108.150431.

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This research investigates the role of strategic alignment in the success of data warehouse implementation. Data warehouse technology is inherently complex, requires significant capital investment and development time. Many organizations fail to realize the full benefits from it. While failure to realize benefits has been attributed to numerous causes, ranging from technical to organizational reasons, the underlying strategic alignment issues have not been studied. This research confirms, through two case studies, that the successful adoption of the data warehouse depends on its alignment to the business plans and strategy. The research found that the factors that are critical to the alignment of data warehouses to business strategy and plans are (a) joint responsibility between data warehouse and business managers, (b) alignment between data warehouse plan and business plan, (c) business user satisfaction, (d) flexibility in data warehouse planning and (e) technical integration of the data warehouse. In the case studies, the impact of strategic alignment was visible both at implementation and use levels. The key findings from the case studies are that a) Senior management commitment and involvement are necessary for the initiation of the data warehouse project. The awareness and involvement of data warehouse managers in corporate strategies and a high level of joint responsibility between business and data warehouse managers is critical to strategic alignment and successful adoption of the data warehouse. b) Communication of the strategic direction between the business and data warehouse managers is important for the strategic alignment of the data warehouse. Significant knowledge sharing among the stakeholders and frequent communication between the iv data warehouse managers and users facilitates better understanding of the data warehouse and its successful adoption. c) User participation in the data warehouse project, perceived usefulness of the data warehouse, ease of use and data quality (accuracy, consistency, reliability and timelines) were significant factors in strategic alignment of the data warehouse. d) Technology selection based on its ability to address business and user requirements, and the skills and response of the data warehousing team led to better alignment of the data warehouse to business plans and strategies. e) The flexibility to respond to changes in business needs and flexibility in data warehouse planning is critical to strategic alignment and successful adoption of the data warehouse. Alignment is seen as a process requiring continuous adaptation and coordination of plans and goals. This research provides a pathway for facilitating successful adoption of data warehouse. The model developed in this research allows data warehouse professionals to ensure that their project when implemented, achieve the strategic goals and business objectives of the organization.

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Truch, Edward. "Strategic alignment of knowledge orientation in organisations." Thesis, Henley Business School, 2001. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.395753.

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Hale, Andrea Jane. "Measuring IS strategic alignment in small firms." Thesis, University of Canterbury. Accounting and Information Systems, 1995. http://hdl.handle.net/10092/2714.

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There is mixed evidence regarding the possible benefits available to organisations from the implementation of information systems (IS). Despite general acceptance of the benefit of aligning IS strategy with organisation strategy to obtain the maximum benefit, few attempts have been made to define and quantify this relationship. Before it is possible to quantify the effect of alignment on performance it is first necessary to be able to measure alignment itself. In particular, the past models have largely neglected the specific considerations of smaller business organisations. This thesis assesses the past research into business strategy, information systems strategy and alignment. It is determined which of the prior models is most appropriate as the basis for provision of a measure of strategic alignment in small firms with the aim of providing a solid base for further research in actually quantifying the effect of strategic alignment on performance. The model selected from the assessment of past research involved a series of four instruments assessing business strategy, IS strategy, IS effectiveness and business performance. Churchill's (1979) recommended steps for the development and subsequent testing of construct measures were followed in adapting the chosen model and instruments to be used in small firms. The resulting instruments were tested via multiple cases, using firms from four different industries in order to provide a wider opportunity for interviewer assessment of the performance of the instruments. The quantitative results were consistently found to parallel the interviewers' qualitative assessments of the information systems alignment in each firm. Additionally, the instruments met the requirements for validity and reliability that were able to be tested with a case study approach. Overall therefore, the results of this thesis provide a significant step towards providing a method for the measurement of strategic alignment in small firms. Future development of these instruments will also provide opportunity for research into methods for determining the impact of strategic alignment on the performance of organisations.

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Galicija, Mike [Verfasser]. "Strategic Alignment in Change Prozessen / Mike Galicija." Hannover : Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Universität Hannover, 2019. http://d-nb.info/1186251271/34.

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Wong, Hon Shu. "A structural model of strategic alignment between information systems and business strategies." Thesis, University of Surrey, 2002. http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/721/.

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Greko, Anton, and Rickard Manneklint. "Den strategiska prestationsmätningens utmaningar : En studie i svenska apoteksbranschen." Thesis, Blekinge Tekniska Högskola, 2015. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:bth-1033.

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Titel: Den strategiska prestationsmätningens utmaningar: En studie i svenska apoteksbranschen Författare: Anton Greko & Rickard Manneklint Handledare: Anders Wrenne Institution: Managementhögskolan, Blekinge Tekniska Högskola Kurs: Kandidatarbete i företagsekonomi, 15 högskolepoäng Syfte: Syftet med denna studie är att identifiera de utmaningar som finns på olika organisatoriska nivåer med att upprätthålla strategisk linjering med hjälp av prestationsmätning och därigenom bidra till förståelsen kring prestationsmätningens roll i strategisk linjering. Metod: I denna studie har vi använt oss av semistrukturerade kvalitativa intervjuer för att samla in det empiriska materialet, gällande prestationsmätning, strategi och strategisk linjering. Slutsatser: Denna studie har identifierat ett antal utmaningar på olika organisatoriska nivåer med att upprätthålla strategisk linjering med hjälp av prestationsmätning. På ledningsnivå finns främst utmaningar gällande att ständigt diskutera och ompröva prestationsmåttens relevans även då det kan finnas drivkrafter som motarbetar detta. På operativ nivå finns främst utmaningar i att förse operativa chefer med tid, resurser och verktyg för att följa upp mätningar, leda sina medarbetare och påverka prestationsmätningarnas resultat.
Title: The challenges of strategic performance measurement: A study in the Swedish pharmaceutical industry Authors: Anton Greko & Rickard Manneklint Supervisor: Anders Wrenne Department: School of Management, Blekinge Institute of Technology Course: Bachelor’s thesis in Business Administration, 15 credits Purpose: The purpose with this study is to identify the challenges that exist at different organizational levels to maintain strategic alignment with performance measurement and thereby contribute to the understanding about the role of performance measurement in strategic alignment. Method: In this study, we have used semi-structured qualitative interviews to collect the empirical data, regarding performance measurement, strategy and strategic alignment. Conclusions: This study has identified a number of different challenges at different organizational levels to maintain strategic alignment with performance measurement. At a corporate level, there are challenges mainly about constantly discuss and reevaluate the relevance of the performance measures, even though there might be forces that counteract this. At an operational level, there are challenges mainly about providing the operational managers with time, resources and tools to be able to follow up the measurements, lead their employees and affect the results of the measurements.

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Thurlby, Bob. "Strategic alignment : an approach to the harmonisation of business and information systems strategies." Thesis, Brunel University, 1998. http://bura.brunel.ac.uk/handle/2438/5551.

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Information Systems are fundamental to both the day to day operations and competitiveness of most organisations. As the rate of change in organisations continues to increase this dependency has become more critical. However methods for determining the Information Systems that an organisation needs have not moved forward to reflect these increases in organisational turbulence and new capabilities offered by Information Technology. Strategic Alignment is proposed as a new method for Information Systems Planning which recognises the dynamic role of Information Systems as an agent of change and to enable organisations to model and determine how Information Systems can be exploited to improve and transform Business Strategies. Important innovations in the method are incorporation of feedback to ensure that analysis of the interaction of the Information Systems and Business objects within the model is bidirectional. Also that the development of an Information Systems Plan is a complex process which has to be modular. This enables it to incorporate existing results and information where applicable and to deliver its results incrementally. The Strategic Alignment Method has been developed from extensive research which used the Electricity Supply Industry as the source of information because it was facing immense change after its privatisation. As a result detailed case study material is presented as well as the Strategic Alignment Methodology. Maintenance of an Information Systems Plan is also addressed. Once an Information Systems Plan is produced, its implementation can take a number of years. During this time the changes in Business Strategy and Information Systems capability will change. Strategic Alignment proposes methods that will ensure the ongoing harmonisation of the Strategies during the implementation of the plan. The practical nature of the research is reflected in the Addendum which describes the work that has been done to incorporate Strategic Alignment into ICL's services methodology and to train ICL Consultants in its use.

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Silva, Molina Enrique Javier. "Strategic Business and IT Alignment : Addressing Assessment and Governance." Doctoral thesis, KTH, Industriella informations- och styrsystem, 2010. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:kth:diva-26039.

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Strategic business and IT alignment assessment is growing in importance. Different assessment methods have been used to try to pursue the complexity of this dynamic and evolutionary alignment. Despite the fact that alignment is a real problem and a challenge of utmost importance, no consensus can be found on what alignment really is, how it should be measured in the organization in practice, or what measures should be taken to maintain and improve it. Consequently, the key question about how to assess and accomplish (define, identify, measure, maintain and improve) the strategic business and IT alignment is still a great unanswered challenge for many enterprises. In this thesis work, three main research questions were formulated: how can the validity and reliability of an alignment assessment method be improved, what are the dominant topics in the area of alignment, and how to facilitate the analysis of the business and IT governance alignment based on business process simulation and balanced scorecard methods. This is a composite thesis work that includes an introduction and six papers (paper A-F). The main contributions and results of this thesis are described in published and included technical papers. In papers A and B an alternative organization-wide approach and metamodel for assessing strategic business and IT alignment are proposed. Two case studies were performed applying the proposed approach. In paper C, a prioritized diagram of the most widely accepted strategic alignment model, with the purpose of categorizing the most important topics in the research area of strategic business and IT alignment is presented. One of the relevant topics that were identified is governance. In papers D, E and F, there are presented a business process simulation approach and a balanced scorecard method in order to facilitate the assessment of the business and IT governance alignment. An illustrative example of the simulation approach is presented in an appendix of this thesis. This research work aims to improve the decision-making process for business and IT managers at different levels in an enterprise by means of increasing the level of understanding and knowledge as well as by enhancing existing models and methods, for evaluating strategic business and IT alignment.

QC 20101110

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SOUSA, HENRIQUE PRADO DE SA. "ANALYZING THE HUMAN RESOURCE STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT THROUGH ORGANIZATIONAL MODELS." PONTIFÍCIA UNIVERSIDADE CATÓLICA DO RIO DE JANEIRO, 2017. http://www.maxwell.vrac.puc-rio.br/Busca_etds.php?strSecao=resultado&nrSeq=32725@1.

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PONTIFÍCIA UNIVERSIDADE CATÓLICA DO RIO DE JANEIRO
COORDENAÇÃO DE APERFEIÇOAMENTO DO PESSOAL DE ENSINO SUPERIOR
CONSELHO NACIONAL DE DESENVOLVIMENTO CIENTÍFICO E TECNOLÓGICO
PROGRAMA DE EXCELENCIA ACADEMICA
Modelos organizacionais são excelentes insumos para a engenharia de requisitos, uma vez que eles são ricos em detalhes sobre o sistema de informação, permitindo a comunicação, entendimento, avaliação do domínio, e a elicitação da informação para a definição de requisitos de software. Dentro do contexto da administração organizacional, estes modelos são usados em uma variedade de propósitos, incluindo o alinhamento organizacional, o qual é um dos maiores desafios das companhias em ambientes de alta competitividade. O alinhamento organizacional torna explicita as relações entre a camada operacional e de objetivos, o que deve ser representado através de modelos organizacionais para ampliar as possibilidades de avaliação, mensuração e melhoria. No contexto de sistemas de software, é importante o uso de modelos com alta qualidade e aderência aos objetivos organizacionais. Para se alcançar um nível satisfatório de alinhamento, somente a projeção de processos bem definidos não é suficiente. Também é necessário o alinhamento estratégico de diversas perspectivas da organização, por exemplo, financeira, planejamento, tecnologia e recursos humanos. Entretanto, quando se trata de alinhamento estratégico, as linguagens de modelagem organizacional não abordam diversos aspectos. Esta tese busca expandir a capacidade da modelagem organizacional, inserindo recursos que ajudam a análise do alinhamento estratégico. Em especial, a perspectiva de Recursos Humanos é abordada, a qual consideramos uma das mais relevantes para o alinhamento organizacional devido a sua posição vital na execução dos processos organizacionais.
Organizational models are excellent inputs for requirement engineering, since they carry a huge amount of detail about information systems, allowing the communication, understanding, domain evaluation, and the information elicitation to the definition of software requirements. Inside the organizational administration context, these models are used for a variety of purposes, including organizational alignment, which is a major challenge for companies in a highly competitive environment. Organizational alignment makes explicit the relationship between the operational and objective layers, what must be represented in organizational models to increase the possibilities of evaluation, measurement and improvement. In the context of software systems, it is important to use models with higher quality and adherence to the organizational objectives. To achieve satisfactory level of alignment, only the designing of well-defined processes is not enough. It is also necessary to strategically align diverse perspectives of the organization, for example, budget, planning, technology, and human resources. However, when it comes to strategic alignment, organizational modeling languages do not address several aspects. This thesis seeks to expand the capacity of organizational modeling, inserting resources that help the strategic alignment analysis. Especially the Human Resources perspective will be approached, which we consider one of the most relevant to organizational alignment, due to its vital position in the execution of organizational processes.

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Balodimas, Maria V. (Maria Vasiliki). "Strategic alignment in a residential real estate brokerage company." Thesis, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1996. http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/10376.

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Williams, Robert L. "Branding through renaming for strategic alignment in service organisations." Thesis, Edinburgh Napier University, 2012. http://researchrepository.napier.ac.uk/Output/6657.

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The overall goal of this study was to develop a theoretically based and empirically grounded process framework to understand radical organisational renaming within service industries, particularly Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The specific research aim was to analyse organisational renaming as an option to rebrand and reposition an unhealthy brand image and to identify and define renaming factors and processes that successful radical renaming utilise. The research design was a semistructured, qualitative, multiple-case study format that incorporated open-ended interview questions with 49 stakeholders from three separate institutions and secondary research data from printed documents, web sites and outside media sources. The early literature review for this study supported the premise that renaming is complicated and driven by individual strategic organisational goals that center around eliminating or softening negatives and strengthening or even creating new positives. This research uncovered the brand flux nature that precedes radical renaming and identified the various processes associated with revitalizing, rebranding, repositioning and renaming which resulted in a Brand Flux Model that depicts how the flux nature of branding critically impacts renaming. Additionally, it identified twelve distinct factors that were grouped into a four stage process framework model; this Renaming Process Model describes the importance placed on each impact factor as well as how the order of the factors influence the overall success of a renaming. Strategic placement on the model represents the continuing strategic realignment and co-created nature inherent in renaming within a service industry. A template that highlights the significance of realigning "8 Principles of Renaming" to the strategic goals of the institution was also developed. The study contributed to the areas of branding, rebranding and repositioning by defining terms and proposing nuanced definitions, including a working definition for radical renaming. It culminated with the development of the Brand Flux model and a proposed Renaming Process Model that tracks renaming in a service environment. This qualitative research format and accompanying models and processes can be used to study renaming in a variety of industries.

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Barnes, Joan. "Strategic Alignment of Information Technology Projects and Project Success." ScholarWorks, 2017. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/3974.

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Alignment of information technology (IT) projects remains a concern for business executives and negatively impacts IT investments through failed projects. Drawing from the theory of systems thinking and the concept of holism, the purpose of this correlational study was to provide executive leaders with information about influences associated with the independent variables of project alignment and performance outputs, and the dependent variable, project success rates. Accordingly, the research question addressed the relationship between the 2-predictor variables and the outcome variable. Data collection involved a nonprobability, purposive sample of 49 credentialed project managers from Arizona who completed an online survey. Results from multiple linear regression analysis indicated statistically significant relationships between the predictor variables (F (2, 46) = 111.08, p < .001). The regression model predicted 82% of the variation resulted from the independent variables. The study's findings provide corporate leaders with a better understanding of project alignment, performance outputs, and project success rates from the operations perspective of project management professionals who contribute to the organization's competitive advantage through the implementation of strategic IT projects. The positive social change implications of this study include increased organization benefits, such as substantiated IT investments and higher profits. Increased project success rates substantiate IT investments through improved customer satisfaction and financial performance. Improved financial performance leads to higher profits, which leads to higher wages. Higher wages contributes positively to society-at-large through an enhanced quality of life.

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Fagerholm, Sebastian, Patrik Lorentzson, and Robin Moritz. "Strategic Human Resource Management : A study of EWES Stålfjäder AB's HR Strategies alignment to corporate strategies." Thesis, Jönköping University, JIBS, Business Administration, 2010. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:hj:diva-12857.

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Background: It is important to develop and execute human resource practices that generate employee competencies and behaviours the company needs to achieve its strategic goals. SHRM is about how to align HR strategies with corporate strategies, and implemented in a correct way SHRM can be an efficient tool to use for enhancing organisational performance.

Purpose: The purpose of the thesis is to evaluate the alignment between EWES Stålfjäder AB´s corporate strategies and its HR strategies.

Method: To study this we believe it was accurate to use a qualitative method approach. The empirical study consists of semi-structured interviews as well as written documents.

Analysis: The structure of the analysis follows the theoretical framework. We have used the model developed by Dessler (2008, p. 95), “How to Align HR Strategy and Actions with Business Strategy”.

Conclusions: We found that EWES Stålfjäder AB need to clarify their corporate strategies throughout the whole organisation. This will help them to identify and implement HR strategies that are in line with them. Working in this manner, we believe it will help EWES to conceptualize and execute accurate changes the organisation needs to accomplish their corporate strategies. Furthermore, we found that most of EWES’ HR practices become more like add-ons than strategic activities that are aligned with their corporate strategies.

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RIBEIRO, BIANCA KWIATKOWSKI. "STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT OF BUDGET PLANNING ON ORGANIZATIONS: THE CBTU CASE." PONTIFÍCIA UNIVERSIDADE CATÓLICA DO RIO DE JANEIRO, 2004. http://www.maxwell.vrac.puc-rio.br/Busca_etds.php?strSecao=resultado&nrSeq=5833@1.

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Atualmente, o setor de transporte, no Brasil, está sofrendo um processo de descentralização por meio da estadualização com vistas à privatização. Para acompanhar tais mudanças, a Companhia Brasileira de Trens Urbanos - CBTU está reestruturando suas atividades e seu planejamento estratégico. Nesse contexto, o grande problema da empresa é ser deficitária em um país onde a maior parte da população é de baixa renda e os sistemas de transporte público não são auto-sustentáveis. O propósito desta pesquisa é investigar como assegurar o alinhamento estratégico do planejamento orçamentário em uma empresa pública, precisamente a CBTU, cujo objetivo principal é satisfazer as necessidades da sociedade. A investigação foi desenvolvida, usando a metodologia de estudo de caso, sendo a CBTU a empresa foco. Os dados da pesquisa foram coletados por meio de investigação documental e telematizada, questionários, predominantemente, estruturados e entrevistas, e tratados com métodos quantitativos e qualitativos. A interpretação e a análise dos dados foram realizadas com base no referencial teórico, fundamentado em revisão de literatura pertinente à área de estudo, com auxílio do modelo genérico integrativo de Macedo-Soares (2001b). Os resultados evidenciaram inconsistência entre o planejamento orçamentário e a estratégia da empresa. Também foi possível identificar os fatores organizacionais que contribuem e os que não contribuem para esse alinhamento. Ao final do trabalho, compartilham-se as lições a respeito do estudo de caso na CBTU.
Currently, the transportation sector in Brazil is passing through a decentralization process in order to be privatized. To follow these changes the Companhia Brasileira de Trens Urbanos - CBTU is reorganizing its activities and its strategical planning. In this context, the biggest problem of the company is to be in debt in a country where the great part of the population is poor. Bisides that, the public transportation system is not self sustainable. The purpose of this research is to investigate how to line up strategically the budget planning in a public company, necessarily CBTU, and how to meet the society necessities is its main objective. The investigation was developed using the case study methdology, being the CBTU the company focus. The data of the research were collected by documental/telematic investigations, interviews and questionnaires, treated with quantitative and qualitative methods. The data interpretation and analysis were conducted based on the theoretical references from the literature review, with the support of the systemic and integrative model developed by Macedo-Soares (2001b). The results evidenced inconsistency between the budget planning and the firm`s strategy objectives. Also, it was possible to identify the organizational factors that contribute and the ones that do not contribute for this alignment. Finally, this study shares lessons of the case study in the CBTU.

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Bartis, Heidi Vöhn. "Effective leadership communication as a key role in the achievement of strategic alignment." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/1431.

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Dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree Master of Technology: Public Relations Management in the Faculty of Informatics and Design at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology 2014
Communicating for strategic alignment requires senior executives to be communicating leaders. This statement is evident when one reads of senior executives admitting that it is not the lack of strategy that occupies their minds, but rather their organisation’s ability to execute a strategy. The pertinent issue is therefore the ability of leaders to communicate in such a way that followers can answer the following questions: Do we know where our organisation is now in relation to its strategic direction and where is it heading? Do we understand how the roles we play contribute to the bigger picture? Do we know what the challenges and opportunities are on the way ahead and how we plan to deal with them? Do we understand how our actions contribute to achieving the organisation’s goals and in turn impact on the success of the organisation? These are some of the questions that are asked when leaders and followers seek strategic business alignment in their organisations. This debate is supported by authors who state that strategic communication can help to overcome the barrier of poor alignment and poor performance. The literature review revealed strong evidence that organisations require leadership commitment to create the ‘line of sight’ through effective leadership communication, exemplary leadership behaviour, and having the right people in the right place for strategy development, execution and measurement to ensure that organisations are successful in an ever-changing business environment. The study therefore focused on what the role of leadership communication is to ensure that employees understand the ‘bigger picture’ for the organisation and what they and leadership need to do to execute the strategy successfully and achieve the goals of the organisation. It aimed to understand the perceptions and expectations of employees in terms of the role of leadership communication as an enabler of strategic alignment. The study investigated, through a case study involving senior, middle and junior managers within a Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE)-listed company in the fastmoving consumer goods (FMCG) industry, the respondents’ perceptions of the current effectiveness of leadership communication behaviour and patterns and their perceptions of the importance of elements of leadership communication behaviour for the success of strategic alignment in the organisation. The gaps between respondents’ perceptions of the effectiveness of leadership communication behaviour and their perceptions of the relative importance of such leadership communication behaviour for the success of strategic alignment in the organisation were also measured and analysed. The measurement was conducted through two five-point Likert scales applied to the same set of Likert items where the highest and lowest scores were assigned to the variables by the respondents in terms of the importance and effectiveness of the role of leadership communication and strategic alignment. The results revealed that employees rated commitment to the organisation and its values, strategic alignment in terms of employees knowing how their division fits into the bigger picture of the organisation, what their role is in the success of the organisation, knowledge of the future plans of the organisation and that their work goals are clearly defined as important for the organisation to achieve its objectives. Pride in the organisation, and positive personal association with the organisation, were truly great characteristics of this organisation and these can be built on to enhance the strategic alignment of employees to the benefit of both the employee and the organisation. The findings also revealed gaps such as a lack of shared strategic direction, a need for open and honest communication through employee engagement, role clarification, and cultivating an environment for team solutions and collaboration, as well as a stronger alignment between rewards and performance. The study served as a base-line study and is valuable to the organisation as it provides a good foundation for the development of a strategic leadership communication plan and employee engagement strategy aimed at strengthening strategic alignment, and which can impact positively on the performance of the organisation.

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Taskin, Nazim. "Flexibility and strategic alignment of enterprise resource planning systems with business strategies : an empirical study." Thesis, University of British Columbia, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/2429/39883.

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This thesis examines relationships between strategic alignment, performance, and strategic Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) flexibility. We have used different strategy perspectives to form our strategic alignment construct and chosen several significant variables of these constructs based on the literature. The alignment measurement methods were moderation and profile deviation, and several financial values have been used to form the performance construct. Using empirical data, we have showed that enterprise systems’ alignment with the business strategy can explain the change in their performance. Moreover, strategic flexibility of an enterprise system such as ERP has an additional positive effect on business performance, but it is mediated by the alignment of enterprise systems and business strategies. From a theoretical perspective, we have explained prior conflicting conceptualizations and empirical findings on strategic flexibility’s role by incorporating its indirect effects on business performance. In addition, we have offered a multi-dimensional measurement instrument for ERP alignment to practitioners specifically designed for the alignment of enterprise systems.

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Keith, Joanna Lucyna. "Enterprise risk management : developing a strategic ERM alignment framework, finance sector." Thesis, Brunel University, 2014. http://bura.brunel.ac.uk/handle/2438/10981.

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This thesis investigates the evolutionary process of risk management practices associated with the implementation of enterprise risk management (ERM) across the finance sector. Despite the increasing number of ERM adoptions in the finance industry in recent years, ERM was still at an early stage of development and further research is recommended. The literature review identifies a gap in the ERM literature, prompting the development of a theoretical framework to investigate key organisational factors critical to effective implementation of the strategic framework. A strategic ERM Alignment Framework was developed to address key shortcomings of existing ERM practices in the industry and to provide practical guidance to academics and practitioners. The research was conducted as a two-stage empirical study in the finance sector, employing sequential mixed methods of data collection and analysis: a series of 35 semi-structured qualitative interviews with senior enterprise risk managers representing a variety of financial organisations, followed by a quantitative questionnaire survey of 115 finance industry professionals. The literature supports the industry view of continuous internal and external pressures towards ERM implementation across financial organisations. The research findings confirm that ERM is perceived to have slowly transformed from a process of compliance to a strategic tool and become a source of value creation and competitive advantage. The study also shows that aligning ERM with core organisational strategies and enterprise risk culture have been the underlying factors driving a strategic ERM framework sustainable over time. Inadequate senior management support for ERM and an insufficiently dynamic enterprise risk culture are identified as the greatest challenges to ERM sustainability. Major benefits of ERM are revealed as well informed risk-adjusted decision making and a strategic enterprise-wide view of key risks. The main contribution to knowledge of this research is the development of a strategic ERM Alignment Framework for the finance sector and practical guidelines for its effective implementation. Specifically, this research offers academics and finance industry practitioners a better understanding of organisational factors critical to the implementation of a strategic ERM Alignment Framework, supported by empirical evidence. Key limitation of the research was identified as the complexity of the ERM Alignment Framework that can be mitigated by undertaking future research to simplify the framework following its practical application. The researcher recommends that future research should focus on intangible elements and qualities of ERM that are important to the Alignment Framework, such as developing a strong and consistent enterprise risk culture, or investigating how the framework can add value to the organisation.

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Al, Khalifa Muneera Mohamed. "The impact of strategic alignment on the performance of public organisations." Thesis, Brunel University, 2016. http://bura.brunel.ac.uk/handle/2438/13460.

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Today, technology is a key component in resolving a range of strategic issues; organisations are becoming increasingly dependent on Information Technology (IT) to improve their performance. In order to make the most out of the available technology, the continuing need to integrate IT strategies with business strategies remains evident. As illustrated from the extant literature, strategic planning and IT appear to present positive correlations with improved performance of organisations. Whilst there has been a range of research that has attempted to apply concepts such as strategic alignment, it remains that there are very few empirical findings centred on the overall effectiveness and usefulness of this approach. The aim of this study is to examine the impact of strategic alignment between business and IT on organisational performance of public organisations and depicts factors affecting this alignment. The development of the conceptual model, which guided this study, was based on prior research conducted in the field of strategic alignment, organisational performance, Information Systems (IS) success and IT acceptance. The rationale here is that previous research on strategic alignment has mainly focused on the development of models and frameworks and examines them in a suitable context or explores the relationships between the variables of the models. Research has shown the need for further investigation on the impact of strategic alignment on organisational performance. Hence, This study expands the knowledge in this field by examining the impact of the strategic alignment of business and IT on the performance of public organisations using quantitative method approach. Following to the development of the conceptual model, a web survey examines this relationship was sent to 413 executives of Bahrain public organisations. Data was collected using a web-based questionnaire from a sample of 163 participants, i.e. some of whom were IT executives, business executives or both. The results of this study imply a positive impact of strategic alignment on organisational performance of public organisations. It also suggest that IT acceptance and prior IS success significantly influence the strategic alignment in public organisations of Bahrain.

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Ali, Liaqat. "Towards organisational cultural alignment of strategic information systems planning (SISP) methodologies." Thesis, De Montfort University, 2000. http://hdl.handle.net/2086/4078.

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VILLAR, CAROLINA BERNARDES PAULA. "ALIGNMENT OF BUDGET PLANNING TO STRATEGIC PLANNING: CASE STUDY OF EMBRATEL." PONTIFÍCIA UNIVERSIDADE CATÓLICA DO RIO DE JANEIRO, 2007. http://www.maxwell.vrac.puc-rio.br/Busca_etds.php?strSecao=resultado&nrSeq=10148@1.

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PONTIFÍCIA UNIVERSIDADE CATÓLICA DO RIO DE JANEIRO
Após a privatização do sistema Telebrás em 1998, o mercado de telefonia fixa brasileiro que era um monopólio estatal foi dividido entre grupos privados gerando uma grande concorrência no setor. A Embratel, que possuía todo o mercado de telefonia de longa distância nacional e internacional, passou a perder clientes para as demais empresas que entraram com força em seu mercado e, ainda hoje, enfrenta o grande desafio de fazer o caminho de volta, entrando no principal mercado das três grandes do setor (Telemar, Telefônica e Brasil Telecom): a telefonia local. Nesse contexto, é essencial que a Embratel seja capaz de planejar estrategicamente seus próximos passos e o propósito desta pesquisa é investigar o modo de assegurar o alinhamento dos planejamentos orçamentário e estratégico no caso desta empresa, além de identificar os fatores organizacionais que contribuem ou prejudicam este alinhamento. Todos os dados da pesquisa foram coletados através de investigação documental e telematizada, entrevistas com executivos da empresa e analistas do setor. A interpretação e análise dos dados foram realizadas com base no referencial teórico, com o auxílio do modelo Genérico Integrativo de Macedo-Soares (2001). Os resultados encontrados mostraram inconsistência, ou seja, não alinhamento entre o planejamento orçamentário e estratégico da empresa. Também foram identificados os fatores organizacionais que contribuem e que não contribuem para o alinhamento. Ao final, são compartilhadas as lições tiradas do estudo de caso da Embratel.
After the Telebrás privatization in 1998, the telecommunication`s market that used to be a governmental monopoly became divided amongst private groups, which generated a huge dispute in the sector. Embratel, who used to have the whole national and international long distance market, started losing a significant part of its client base to its main competitors (Telemar, Telefônica and Brasil Telecom) and is now striving to walk its way back gaining share of its competitors most important market: the local telephony. In this context, it is essential for Embratel to be able to plan strategically its next steps. This is the main purpose of this research: investigate a way to assure the alignment of the budget planning to the strategic planning for the company and also to identify the organizational factors that contribute and hinder this alignment. All the figures of this research were collected by documental and telematic investigation and interviews with executives of Embratel as well as analysts of the telecommunication`s sector. The data interpretation and analysis were conducted based on the theoretical references from the literature review, with the support of the systemic and integrative model developed by Macedo-Soares (2001). The results proved inconsistency (non-alignment) between the budget planning and the strategic planning. Moreover, it was possible to identify the organizational factors that contribute and hinder the alignment. At the end, this study shares lessons related to the case study of Embratel.

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Dingley, Sharon. "A composite framework for the strategic alignment of information systems development." Thesis, Aston University, 1996. http://publications.aston.ac.uk/10595/.

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Information systems are corporate resources, therefore information systems development must be aligned with corporate strategy. This thesis proposes that effective strategic alignment of information systems requires information systems development, information systems planning and strategic management to be united. Literature in these areas is examined, breaching the academic boundaries which separate these areas, to contribute a synthesised approach to the strategic alignment of information systems development. Previous work in information systems planning has extended information systems development techniques, such as data modelling, into strategic planning activities, neglecting techniques of strategic management. Examination of strategic management in this thesis, identifies parallel trends in strategic management and information systems development; the premises of the learning school of strategic management are similar to those of soft systems approaches to information systems development. It is therefore proposed that strategic management can be supported by a soft systems approach. Strategic management tools and techniques frame individual views of a strategic situation; soft systems approaches can integrate these diverse views to explore the internal and external environments of an organisation. The information derived from strategic analysis justifies the need for an information system and provides a starting point for information systems development. This is demonstrated by a composite framework which enables each information system to be justified according to its direct contribution to corporate strategy. The proposed framework was developed through action research conducted in a number of organisations of varying types. This suggests that the framework can be widely used to support the strategic alignment of information systems development, thereby contributing to organisational success.

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Al-Surmi, Abdulrahman Mohamed. "The impact of triadic strategic alignment on organisational performance in Yemen." Thesis, University of Bedfordshire, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/10547/622701.

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To survive and succeed in the very competitive business environment, firms should have a clear business strategy supported by appropriate information technology (IT) and marketing strategies. Whilst many prior studies argue that strategic alignment between, for example, business strategy and IT strategy generally enhances organisational performance, strategic alignment including multiple factors has received little attention and strategic orientation of firms is rarely considered. This research, drawing on configurational theory and strategic management literature, aims to understand the performance impact of triadic strategic alignment between business, IT, and marketing strategies based on strategic orientation of firms. A number of hypotheses are proposed to examine the relationship between triadic strategic alignment and organisational performance through the use of structural equation modelling, and to identify generic types of triadic strategic alignment. The hypotheses are tested through MANOVA using data collected in a questionnaire survey of 242 managers in Yemen. The findings indicate that (1) there is an ideal triadic strategic alignment for prospectors and defenders; (2) triadic strategic alignment has a positive impact on organisational performance; and (3) triadic strategic alignment provides a better indication of the nature and performance impact of strategic alignment. Follow-up interviews were also conducted to support the arguments and to clarify how strategies should be aligned. This research also contributes to managers’ knowledge and understanding by suggesting how a firm should coherently align its strategies to improve organisational performance.

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Chen, Kun. "Strategic objectives, alignments, and firm performance." Thesis, Kent State University, 2014. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=3618905.

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This dissertation is on mergers and acquisitions (M&A). Two studies are proposed to examine what factors impact performance and partner selection in the context of M&A Event study methodology is used to capture the capital market effects of announcements of M&A in both studies. Four hundred and eighty two announcements are identified from 1980 to 2011 from the SDC M&A database. Other data sources include CRSP and COMPUSTAT. The Wall Street Journal and PR Newswire are used to specify the announcement dates.

Previous research examines the impact of corporate strategy on performance. Study one extends previous research by introducing the notion of alignment between corporate strategy and strategic objective. Corporate strategy is of two types — value creation (emphasis on R&D) or value appropriation (emphasis on marketing). Strategic objectives are operationalized as either enhancement or diversification. The study proposes that firms whose corporate strategies are aligned with strategic objectives are better performers than those that are not aligned. Empirical findings based on capital market reactions strongly support this proposition.

Study two accesses the effect of capability alignment between acquiring and acquired firms. Capability alignment between strategic partners is operationalized along marketing and R&D Empirical results show that the capital market favors acquiring firms that have strong R&D capability. Although technological innovation is a motivating factor in a firm's acquisition, capital market actually favors acquiring firms that have weak R&D capability but strong marketing capability and acquired firms that have weak R&D but strong marketing capability for their enhancement objective.

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Azemi, Elheme, and Saimir Bala. "Exploring BPM adoption and strategic alignment of processes at Raiffeisen Bank Kosovo." Jan vom Brocke, Jan Mendling, Michael Rosemann, 2019. http://epub.wu.ac.at/7176/1/paper4.pdf.

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Situation faced: Raiffeisen Bank Kosovo, as a subsidiary of Raiffeisen BankInternational AG, providesa wide range of banking products and services to all categories of customers in the private individual and business segments. In the first six months of 2018, the profit of the Bank was 11 Million Euro, being the highest in the banking market. The on-line banking channels has increased significantly and today the customers chose to do more than 80% of transactions through E-Banking, mobile phone,or ATMs. Raiffeisen Bank has started to adopt BPM since 2006 as a systemic and structured approach to analyze, improve, control, and manage processes with the aim to improve the quality of products and services. But, how well is BPM adapted and implemented in the bank, and what is the impact of BPM to the strategic goals? b)Action taken: This paper tackles the problem from two angles. First, a literature review is used to clarify the concept of BPM its scope. Second, semistructured interviews were used to collect data from nine participants covering high positions in Raiffeisen Bank Kosovo. In addition, the Research ffered both an evaluation of the significant aspects of the implementation process, and examinedthe key factors effects on alignment of BPM with organization strategy. c)Results achieved: his study unveils that BPM is well understood and is con-sidered an important practice within the bank. Its implementation is familiar to the top management. Especially, process visualization is a considered a core element within BPM projects. Existing project can further benefit from BPM by applying process ownership and defining responsibilities within the end to end processes in every department were these processes are performed. Moreover, this study collects evidence that strategy objectives can be led by BPM. d)Lessons learned: Experience has taught that there are many challenges whenapplying BPM initiatives. However, once these are applied, they help achieving strategic objectives. Two main challenges of implementing BPM were related to lack of proper IT support and budget needed to cover staff training. This paper recommends that BPM initiatives be strategy driven. It should be treated in a holistic way, including several methodologies like Six Sigma, Lean, and Agile. In this way, the Bank is lead towards thinking how its product or services are delivered to the customers.

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Achimugu, Nemile. "Strategic response in fragmented networks." Thesis, Cranfield University, 2007. http://dspace.lib.cranfield.ac.uk/handle/1826/2359.

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Information explosion, globalisation and the reduction of trade barriers have led to the emergence of global production markets and broader access to a range of products for customers. For manufacturers this has led to managing fragmented networks to deal with more polarised markets with wider variety of products at reduced costs and shorter lifecycles in an increasingly competitive environment. This coupled with the pressure to create shareholder value calls for a dynamic approach in the design and management of their supply chains. Market responsiveness is ability to anticipate and react purposefully within appropriate timescale to changes in the market place in order to maximise shareholder value and customer value. The aim of this research is to develop a model for market responsiveness that will enable organisations to deal with the changing needs of the market. To achieve this aim the research methodology was designed to primarily collect qualitative evidence from three distinct supply chains within different industrial contexts. Contrasting across these contexts has helped to determine if the model is generic enough to be applicable in other contexts. The findings were that value gaps exist between interfaces within organisations and their supply chains. At such gaps value is either created, maintained or lost. Value gaps are the primary reasons why organisational tensions exist as the entities involved are focused on conflicting strategic objectives that lead to behavioural misalignment and ultimately poor response. Therefore the research concludes within a market responsiveness model within which there are frameworks for business performance management and managing the value execution point of which maximum shareholder value and customer value can be created.

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Wood, Robin Lincoln. "Strategic alignment : the role of information and management systems in organisational performance." Thesis, London Business School (University of London), 1995. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.362734.

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Haniff, Amos Peter. "The alignment of strategic objectives within the context of Temporary Multi-Organisations." Thesis, Heriot-Watt University, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/10399/3402.

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Current research investigating the alignment of projects with organisational strategy has predominantly focused on formation and implementation of strategic objectives within the boundary of a single, permanent organisation. Within the construction industry, the temporary organisation, created by the client organisation to deliver the project, is formed from multiple organisations that are brought together, under contractual conditions, to engage in a single endeavour. This creates a situation whereby multiple strategic objectives, and hence, multiple perceptions of project success, are pursued at anyone time. The research, forming this thesis, investigates how the varied organisations that comprise a Temporary Multi-Organisation (TMO) seek to align multiple strategic objectives within the context of a single construction project, and realise project success. In achieving this aim, the study exposes a number of ambiguities and difficulties organisations face when seeking to realise strategic objectives through a TMO. Four cases of recently complete construction projects within the public sector were selected for empirical study. Qualitative data collected from interviews with actors across organisations participating in each TMO, was supported by secondary data comprising of project documentation from each case. The study finds that the strategy of the TMO, which evolves to realise project success, is guided by the varied strategic objectives of organisations participating in the project, and is influenced by the environmental conditions, procurement strategies, client complexity and leadership style of the client project manager, which together, influence the strategic behaviour of the TMO. This research contributes to theories of strategic fit and the theory of temporary organisations through a model of strategic alignment within the context of a TMO that explains the complex interactions, which occur when multiple organisations engage within a single construction project. The research also contributes to the understanding of project success through a model of identifying the varied and competing success criteria within a TMO. Finally, the research contributes to leadership theory, through analysis of leadership styles within the context of a TMO.

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David, Carlota Ndembwe. "Strategic alignment to achieve sustainability : an analysis of a Namibian based company." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/97274.

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Thesis (MBA)--Stellenbosch University, 2014.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The research found and understood that the ability of the case study organisation (company X) to understand sustainability issues and stakeholder interests lies in the firm‟s core purpose and strategy (i.e. the notion of incorporating sustainability into business decisions). The research also understood that at company X the three strategy propositions (value, profit, people) are achieved through the process of implementing the company‟s change initiatives for sustainability and in turn support the company to evolve towards a sustainable enterprise. The ability to make sustainability a fundamental aspect of its business decisions is what distinguishes company X such that it can successfully design, introduce and diffuse strategies, practices and cultural traits aligned with sustainable models The researcher further believes that change interventions or initiatives carried out at company X such as value delivery, workforce plan alignment and cash generation are expected to enhance responsibility and accountability of employees. At company X, individuals are informed and allowed a great deal of autonomy when it comes to generating ideas to tackle strategic initiatives. The sense of inclusiveness allows individuals in company X to change their identity and behaviour in line with ideal models of the sustainable enterprise.

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MacDougall, James Charles. "Post-Soviet strategic alignment the weight of history in the South Caucasus /." Connect to Electronic Thesis (CONTENTdm), 2009. http://worldcat.org/oclc/454028817/viewonline.

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Vargas, Chevez Norman. "A unified strategic business and IT alignment model : A study in the public universities of Nicaragua." Licentiate thesis, KTH, Computer and Systems Sciences, DSV, 2010. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:kth:diva-12776.

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A number of attempts have been made to define strategic business and information technology (IT) alignment; several representations of what it is are available in academic and practitioners’ fields. The literature suggests that firms need to achieve strategic business and IT alignment to be competitive. Strategic business and IT alignment impact business performance and IT effectiveness. We propose a unified strategic business and IT alignment model based on four strategic business and IT alignment models: Strategic Alignment Model (SAM), Strategic Alignment Maturity Model (SAMM), information system strategic alignment model and an operational model of strategic alignment. I argue that such a unified model will provide a better understanding of the nature and key aspects of strategic business and IT alignment from different, and sometimes complementary, theories. The unified model represents the concepts and instruments used in these four strategic businesses and IT alignment models. Our principal research goal is to pave the way to develop a common understanding between the different models. The components of the unified strategic business and IT alignment model were ranked with a group of IT experts and business experts from four public universities in Nicaragua. The result can be used as a basis for improving strategic business and IT alignment.

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Plazaola, Prado José Leonel. "Strategic Business and IT Alignment Assessment : A Modeling Approach Associated with Enterprise Architecture." Doctoral thesis, KTH, Industriella informations- och styrsystem, 2009. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:kth:diva-10584.

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Information Technology (IT) systems are pervasive tools for contemporary enterprises to achieve their mission and goals. A key issue for a well-functioning enterprise is to keep business and IT strategies aligned as they continuously evolve. Although many practitioners and researchers offer business and IT alignment theories and approaches there is no silver bullet solution for all the issues involved in Strategic Business and IT Alignment (SBITA), which is still ranked amongst the five top enterprise executives? concerns year after year. In this thesis two SBITA assessment methods are presented. The first is the Organization-wide Approach for Assessing SBITA, developed as an enhancement of Jerry N. Luftman's SBITA assessment approach in terms of measurability, traceability and organizational involvement. The second is the Alignment Metamodel Assessment Method (AMAM). Both methods are based on well established references and approaches and they are presented with systematic documentation for their application and reusability as shown in the included papers and reported case studies. This is a composite thesis that, besides the introduction, includes five papers (papers A-E). Paper A describes Luftman's SBITA assessment approach and its enhancement in terms of measurability, traceability and organizational involvement, the proposed Organization-wide Approach for Assessing SBITA. Results from applying this approach in two case studies in companies in Sweden and Nicaragua are also included. Paper B describes the AMAM. It explains how a metamodel is deduced and how the SBITA assessment will be performed. This paper argues that the AMAM can be affiliated to the EA discipline as a guide or reference for identifying the relevant EA?s representations for the SBITA concern, mitigating the expenses and drawbacks of the often larger modeling required in applying EA frameworks. Paper C shows a weighting of the importance of the SBITA topics, taking as reference the Henderson & Venkatraman Strategic Alignment Model (SAM) - the basis of Luftman?s SBITA assessment approach -by relating it to the relevant and highly cited references in the field of SBITA. Paper D explains the criteria and the process for associating the AMAM artifacts with the Zachman´s Enterprise Architecture Framework and reports the pattern of association into the EA dominion. Paper E reports the details of the processes and results of applying the developed AMAM in a case study conducted in an intensive IT services enterprise in Nicaragua.
QC 20100805

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Shaaban, Sarah, and Sumera Magsi. "Digital business strategy : The driver for change in internal and external business environment." Thesis, Linköpings universitet, Institutionen för ekonomisk och industriell utveckling, 2019. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:liu:diva-159938.

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Title: Digital business strategy - The driver for change in internal and external business environment Authors: Sumera Magsi and Sarah Shaaban Advisor: Andrea Fried Master thesis, 30 credits Background:The effects resulting from a more intense use of digital technologies in companies is visible in the integration between business and IT strategies which creates an urge for digital business strategies to emerge. Thesis aim: The aim is to investigate the current state of digital business strategies which includes highlighting benefits and challenges. By doing that we also are aiming towards answering, in what way ITBA can be questioned due to DBS. Methodology: A qualitative research based on a multiple case study by conducting semi- structured interviews. All the selected case companies are using digital business strategies as a part of their internal and external business environment (IEBE). The respondents have a role in the chosen case companies of being responsible for the implementation and use of strategies, digital business strategies and digital technologies. Findings: This study identifies that their exits a linkage between business strategy and ITBA. The main finding about the current state of DBS involves both internal and external DBS activities. Further findings show that benefit of digital business strategy to be the opportunity to levering costumers and challenges to be connected to the different IT maturity levels of the employees. The way that digital business strategy can question ITBA is based on that it is the driver for change for the case companies.

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Hristova, Vesela, and Claudia Müller. "Project Portfolio Management & Strategic Alignment : Governance as the Missing Link." Thesis, Internationella Handelshögskolan, Högskolan i Jönköping, IHH, EMM (Entrepreneurskap, Marknadsföring, Management), 2009. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:hj:diva-9575.

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Introduction – Project-based organizations face a series of challenges when trying to implement and manage their project portfolios successfully in line with their strategic goals. Good project portfolio management (PPM) practices play a crucial role in maintaining well performing portfolios, but PPM is still a fairly new academic field. And it was found that the current PPM literature embodies a gap in providing explicit governance criteria to assure consistent portfolio decision-making. Problem – What are the criteria of portfolio governance that contribute to better aligning the project portfolio to organizational strategy? Do project-based organizations in fact not implement a governance framework to guide their decision-making rationale? If there is some sort of a governance framework, do project-based organizations implement it in a consistent manner every time they take portfolio-related decisions? Purpose – The purpose of this study is two-fold. First, we attempt to fill a gap in the current PPM literature by proposing a portfolio governance framework that could enhance project portfolio decision-making. Secondly, it is our goal to find out whether decision makers in project-based organizations consistently cover all issues related to portfolio governance at portfolio meetings. Methodology – The study employs both qualitative & quantitative methods to fulfill the two-fold nature of the study. A Portfolio Governance Framework, comprising 26 statements, was developed on the grounds of existing literature on PPM, strategy & governance. The proposed Framework was then used as a basis to carry out an online survey in which 31 respondents (executive level) from 25 project-based organizations (operating in Sweden) were asked about how consistent they are in discussing relevant portfolio governance issues. Conclusion – The empirical findings of this study indicate that the majority of project-based companies do not employ a governance framework when it comes to portfolio decision-making. In the few cases that they do, it is mostly a set of policies that is not applied on a consistent basis.

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Sakor, Madj. "An examination of strategic alignment between manufacturing strategy and business strategy in Syria." Thesis, University of Exeter, 2008. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.489245.

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Although much of the manufacturing strategy and business strategy literature emphasizes the importance of alignment, little empirical research has addressed strategic alignment between manufacturing strategy and business strategy. Managers' awareness of concepts discussed in the literature raises the profile of manufacturing within the organization, and highlights its role and importance in achieving corporate objectives. Scholars exploring manufacturing strategy stress the importance for strategy of horizontal integration of manufacturing with other functional strategies, and vertical integration to achieve business and corporate-level strategies.

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Arora, Savinder S. "A symbolic model for the enterprise integration of information technology through strategic alignment." Thesis, University of East London, 2002. http://roar.uel.ac.uk/1292/.

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The widespread recognition of Information Technology (IT) as either an agent of enterprise transformation or as a driver of new enterprise forms is due to several factors. Grove (1996) and Lewis (2000) suggests that chief amongst them is the ceaseless and pace of change in both the qualitative and quantitative nature of IT with its use at every level of the enterprise hierarchy, This research study analyses the rise and fall of strategic IT planning tools and with an aim to achieve business impact. The study identifies new approaches for achieving alignment, by considering the concept of the `adaptive enterprise. ' Impact factors are developed from previous research studies covering effectiveness, efficiency, user needs, synergy and market competitiveness. Adaptation behaviours are derived from studies performed by Haekel (1999) with enterprise cultures types researched developed by Trompenaars (2000). Hypothesis aimed at investigating the relationships between these factors are then derived. Initial complex statistical analysis reveal limited significances in the enterprises capability of interpreting and actioning IT solutions effectively to deliver improvements in competitiveness, and derive both internal and external synergy (collaboration), respectively. The research conducted then takes a new path, discovering a new 'middle ground' between reductionist and holistic approaches. For example, Chia (1998) proposes that IT research has tended to focus on the consequences of IT with models based on attempts to algorithmically compress the elements of an enterprise, implying modelling is a reductionist approach. This research discovers new areas of adaptation behaviours and the associated the need to balance the polarisation of views between internal communities of enterprises it also suggests optimum adaptation conditions for both fulfilment and project driven cultures. The research study concludes with implications and suggestions for new approaches and tools to assist IT researchers and consultancy organisations.

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Marchildon, Philippe. "The strategic alignment of interorganizational information systems the case of Quebec manufacturing firms." Mémoire, Université de Sherbrooke, 2008. http://savoirs.usherbrooke.ca/handle/11143/315.

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This study had two main objectives. First, to identify and operationalize the key variables required to assess the strategic alignment of Inter-Organizational Information Systems (IOISs) in the context of dyadic relationships between manufacturers and suppliers. Second, to use a subset of these variables to test two alignment perspectives: fit as moderation and fit as gestalt. More precisely, four key dimensions tied to the study of IOISs alignment in the context of interorganizational relationship (relationship structure, antecedents, outcomes and IOISs usage) and the twenty-five variables that characterize them were identified. Results, from the gestalt and moderation alignment perspective's test show that when aligned together, joint actions (relationship structure), idiosyncratic investments (antecedents), diversity (IOISs usage) and internal integration (IOISs usage) become adequate predictors of the manufacturers' operational performance (outcomes). Thus, demonstrating the primordial role of IOISs alignment in manufacturer-supplier relationship and supporting the contingency theory and its underlying concept of fit.

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Naidoo, Lavendra. "The strategic alignment maturity of business and information technology at Volkswagen South Africa." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003910.

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During the past three decades Information Technology (IT) has been constantly evolving and has emerged into a significant component and enabler of most organisations strategy, to the point that modern day organisations are intrinsically dependent on IT (Peppard and Ward, 2004). Henderson and Venkatraman (1993) advocate that for an organisation to be successful in a dynamic and competitive business environment it is imperative that there is an effective and efficient IT strategy that enables the business strategy and processes. Volkswagen South Africa (VWSA)in 2007 launched its corporate strategy, 1:10:100 – 2010 At the end of this stated period 2010, VWSA achieved several of its objectives, namely surpassing its competitors in passenger vehicle sales volume, improving its customer satisfaction, achieving a higher level of local parts content per unit, developing its people and improving its infrastructure and processes.

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Plazaola, Prado José Leonel. "Strategic business and IT alignment assessment : a modeling approach associated with enterprise architecture /." Stockholm : School of Electrical Engineering, Royal Institute of Technology, 2009. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:kth:diva-10584.

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bh, jaflah@itc uob, and Jaflah Hassan Al-Ammary. "Knowledge Management Strategic Alignment in the Banking Sector at the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Countries." Murdoch University, 2008. http://wwwlib.murdoch.edu.au/adt/browse/view/adt-MU20081203.120238.

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An alignment or fit between an organizations objectives and knowledge management (KM) practices should be established in order for the organization to fully utilize its knowledge assets and to derive competitive advantages. The organization should deploy a holistic approach for KM that spans business strategy, information system (IS) strategy, organization culture, and human factors. This research has investigated the strategic alignment between knowledge strategy and business strategy - KMBS-SA and the strategic alignment between knowledge strategy and IS strategy - KMIS-SA in the banking sector among the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Using the proposed model, the study explored the impacts of KMBS-SA and KMIS-SA on the organizational performance. The main hypothesis of this research is that knowledge is the main resource in an organization, and by aligning this resource with the business strategy and IS strategy, the alignment will contribute positively on the performance of the organization. The research model was illustrated in two different conceptualizations hypothesizing the different relationships between knowledge strategies, business strategy and IS strategy. The first conceptualization illustrates the KMBS-SA and KMIS-SA, and an investigation on the contribution of theses alignments on the organizational performance. The second conceptualization of the research model aims at investigating the impact of different types or profiles of KMBS-SA and KMIS-SA on the organizational performance. This study examined different alignments between two profiles of knowledge strategy - Aggressive Knowledge Strategy (AKS) and Conservative Knowledge Strategy (CKS), with various types of business strategy according to Miles and Snows (1978) strategic typology, and, the alignment of the two profiles of knowledge strategy with various IS strategy based on the STROIS approach by Chan et al. (1997). Using both conceptualizations, the role of knowledge strategy as a moderator or a mediator in the contribution of the business strategy and IS strategy towards the organizational performance was examined. The primary data for this study was collected through a survey of 106 banks from the six Gulf countries: Kingdom of Bahrain, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Oman. The first overall conclusion demonstrated that there is a strong association between knowledge strategy and business strategy and that KMBS-SA clearly influenced the organizational performance. The second overall result of this research shows that in the context of GCC countries, knowledge strategy received stronger support as moderator of the IS congruence association with performance and that KMIS-SA is the primary determinant of the effectiveness of IS in the GCC banks. From the finding, it is recommended that the GCC banks should take KMBS-SA and KMIS-SA challenge seriously and should consider the alignment implication before moving ahead to implement a strategic plan. Furthermore, the research finding revealed that GCC bank should not ignore the different dimensions of knowledge strategic choices. The banks need to determine different profiles for their knowledge strategy in order to support all aspects of business strategy and IS strategic dimensions that are most important for the organization. They should then direct the organizational knowledge resources to support these profiles. Finally, it is recommended that the banks should define and establish a position in KM in order to oversee the knowledge strategy and KM issues.

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Fredericks, Jeanne. "Towards an understanding of the boundaries and characteristics of a Digital Business Strategy." Doctoral thesis, Faculty of Commerce, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/32673.

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The merging of business and information technology (IT) strategies, effectively becoming a Digital Business Strategy (DBS), is changing the way that organisations have to leverage resources to create differential value. Due to the DBS being such a novice idea, there is no clear understanding of what the DBS is, what its characteristics and boundaries are, how it impacts alignment between business and IT, and how it impacts organisational performance. Without this understanding, organisations leveraging a DBS run the risk of launching technological initiatives or making organisational changes that are disjointed from their strategic direction. These misaligned efforts may result in unrealised strategy and unsatisfactory organisational performance. The purpose of this study was to define the boundaries and characteristics of the DBS, provide a definition of a DBS and to establish if the DBS has a positive effect on organisational performance. To examine the DBS, it was observed in its natural habitat, through a single case study approach, focusing on an organisation that has been leveraging a DBS as part of their digital journey. The organisation is a South African based financial services provider and is a subsidiary of a larger financial services provider. In this study, the DBS was observed from an intellectual, operational, social and cultural alignment perspective, using a combination of the Strategic Alignment Model (SAM) and the Complex Adaptive System (CAS) frameworks. This study subscribed to a mixed-method approach which included both qualitative and quantitative research techniques. Staff providing input into this study included senior, middle, junior and non-management employees. The study was conducted over a period of thirteen months. The findings from both the qualitative and quantitative data suggest that to leverage a DBS the organisation must be concerned with more than just leveraging digital resources. For instance, organisations must focus on customer and staff empowerment, use customer and industry-related information to create opportunistic and competitive decision-making opportunities, and create a change-ready culture where bold experimentation and failing forward is embraced. Researchers and practitioners alike can use the findings of this case study as lessons on how to leverage organisational resources in the context of the DBS.

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McCarthy, John. "Higher-level process theory motors of Strategic Information Systems (SIS) alignment : an exploratory study." Thesis, University of Nottingham, 2013. http://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/28977/.

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The need for IS Strategies to be optimally aligned with business strategies in order to maximize both value for the business and usability of technology has lead to an understandable emphases on strategic IS alignment for both academics and practitioners (Henderson and Venkatraman, 1999; Galliers and Newell, 2003). However, on review of both the IS strategy and alignment literatures, important limits in current understanding were identified. Although there has been an increasing acceptance of IS strategy as more likely to have an emergent (Avgerou, Ciborra and Land, 2004) rather than a planned rational nature (apropos the seminal work of Mintzberg and Waters (1985)), descriptive and theoretical understanding of this emergent nature was lacking. Further gaps in the IS alignment literature were identified. The predominant emphases of alignment research were on the outcomes and causes of alignment with insufficient consideration given to the ongoing processes of alignment. Very strikingly, the roles of the informal organisation in alignment had been hitherto underexplored and although process (and indeed strategic process) theory had attained a level of maturity; application in alignment process research was conspicuously absent. In essence, literature evaluation had identified that there was an insufficient understanding of IS alignment as an emerging strategic process, from both theory and practitioner perspectives. The following research question could therefore be derived: What process theory motors and relationships characterise SIS alignment process? The most apposite perspective on process for this research was to frame alignment as a developing sequence of events, rather than the alternative approach of a set of concepts of categories (VanDeVen, 2007) necessitating a longitudinal approach to data collection. The principal motivation of the research question was a nascent attempt to explore and understand rather than measure alignment, so a subjective qualitative approach was most appropriate. Alignment process data was collected at multiple organisational levels and from both primary (i.e. semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders in the alignment process) and second sources (i.e. formal strategy documents and planning schedules). The process of alignment was presented in the form of a case narrative. SIS alignment process events were identified and their progression visually expressed by applying techniques from process research literature (Langley, 1999; Pentland, 1999). Applying the well-established relationship between even progression, generative mechanisms and motors (Pettigrew, 1990; VanDeVen and Poole, 1995) enabled Strategic IS alignment process to be conceptualised in the form of high-level process theory motors. The contributions of this research are as follows. A process theory perspective on Strategic IS alignment process is offered which addresses the identified literature gap. Methodological contributions also arise due to the structured and explicit application of process research analyses techniques, still relatively rare in IS research. Recommendations for managerial practice also arise from the detailed explication of the alignment process and the causes and outcomes of key process events and their progression.

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Ma, Louis Chee-keung. "Development of a configurational model on information systems strategic alignment : a Hong Kong study." Thesis, University of Warwick, 1997. http://wrap.warwick.ac.uk/36251/.

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The strategic information systems (IS) literature often suggests that there is a need to align IS strategy with business strategy. However, three major limitations in the study of IS strategic alignment have not been adequately addressed. First, IS strategic alignment is usually not well-defined. Second, there are few research studies on appropriate measures of IS strategic alignment. Third, the significance and benefits of IS strategic alignment are difficult to determine. This thesis develops a configurational model on IS strategic alignment that evaluates not only the internal consistencies between IS strategy and business strategy but also contingency approaches to different types of IS strategic alignment. The four alignment types are Business-strategy-led, Conservative, Organisation-led and Technology-led. Quantitative assessments on survey data indicate that there is a relationship between alignment types and IS planning factors, as well as significant differences in IS strategic planning characteristics among the four alignment types. More effective and less effective indicators for both IS strategic planning and IS success have been identified. Qualitative analyses from the survey and multiple case study evaluations have identified good practices and pitfalls to avoid in IS strategic planning, as well as the change processes in the migration of one alignment type to another. The enhancement of the IS strategic alignment configurational model incorporates the "middle-fit" alignment type so that the configurational characteristics could be more distinctive, and the extension of the alignment theory to a capabilitybased resource alignment model by matching users' information management experience against the IT department's capability to develop and deliver high quality IS. Further research initiatives have been also been identified.

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Nilsen, Kim. "Aligning Enterprise Strategy with IT projects : Uncovering the most common factors causing misalignment in IT project." Thesis, Internationella Handelshögskolan, Högskolan i Jönköping, IHH, Informatik, 2019. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:hj:diva-46434.

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Stratgic alignment has been one of the top concerns for IT executives for decades. One of the great debates in literature regarding strategic alignment is what act ‘alignment’ means, why it is needed and how do enterprises stay aligned. Alignment has many definitions, but in this context, it is concerned with the integration of business and IT strategies. Research has proven that there are positive relations to enterprise performance when it is aligned. This qualitative research investigates the causes of misalignment through the views and thoughts of IT professionals at a Scandinavian IT consultancy company. By using a model created by, Schlosser, Wagner, and Coltman, this thesis could establish the most common factors to achieve alignment in the given enterprise. The model allowed the field of business-IT alignment to be explored in IT projects, and allowed for a better understanding of what causes misalignment. This thesis conducted six interviews to answers two research questions; (1) what factors cause misalignment in IT projects and (2) how do these factors differ in different methodologies. The results from the analysis found that the main factors of misalignment were ‘procedures / workflow alignment’, ‘managerial skills of business and IT employees’, ‘technical skills and knowledge of IT employees’, ‘mutual trust and respect between business and IT executives / employees’, ‘IT skills and knowledge of business executives/employees’ and ‘alignment of business and IT strategy/goals/plans’. The second research question could concluded that more research is needed to understand how factors change using different methodologies, as the results were to similar to reach a definit conclusion. For future research the thesis recommends using a multiple case study using the same model to verify the data gathered in this thesis and to strengthen the use of the model.

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Madanoglu, Melih. "Underlying Risk Dimensions in the Restaurant Industry: A Strategic Finance Approach." Diss., Virginia Tech, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/25941.

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One of the keys for restaurant managers in conducting a proper assessment of their business opportunities is through understanding the level of risk these opportunities bear. This can be achieved by analyzing the causal relationships between external environmental forces and internal capabilities of the firm, and then make a strategic choice in what opportunities to invest. The purpose of this study was to investigate the concept of risk and its underlying dimensions that influence the restaurant industryâ s cash flows and stock returns. This study proposed a contemporary framework that enables restaurant industry executives to develop a better understanding of the risk factors (macroeconomic and industry) that influence their firmsâ cash flows and stock returns. The primary unit of analysis was at industry (portfolio) level. In addition, as a second step, three restaurant firms were selected to demonstrate the practical application of the model. Exploratory factor analysis indicated that the restaurant industry risk is represented by three dimensions: â Output,â â PPI Meats,â and â IP Restaurants.â The macroeconomic risk construct was represented by the five variables of Arbitrage Pricing Theory of Chen et al. (1986). Time series-analysis regression of the portfolio of 75 restaurant firms, for the 1993-2004 period, revealed that macroeconomic variables explained a significant portion of restaurant stock returns. On the other hand, both macroeconomic and industry models explained a significant level of variation in operating cash flows. The addition of September 11 â dummyâ variable improved the explained variation in stock returns for both equations (macroeconomic and industry). At a firm level, the industry model accounted for a significant variation in internal value drivers (operating cash flows, food cost, and labor cost) for all three restaurant companies. The industry risk model survived after controlling for the effect of macroeconomic variables on operating cash flows. The results indicate that the industry model provides a parsimonious solution in estimating variation in operating cash flows by capturing macroeconomic effects.
Ph. D.

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Galilee-Belfer, Mika. "Ambiguity and Alignment in Academic Policies: Course Substitutions, Learning Disabilities, and Universal Design." Diss., The University of Arizona, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10150/228192.

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While research on barriers to full participation for those with learning and other disabilities has focused largely on structural and institutional obstacles to work and education (Swain, French, & Cameron, 2005; Jones, 1996; Watson, 2002), the recognition of disability as a social justice issue is gaining currency (Kraus, 2008). Expensive, bureaucratic, and protracted procedures for reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities in colleges and universities may serve as institutional obstacles that can challenge notions of social justice. This study examined academic policy implementation surrounding foreign language substitution procedures and practices in five institutions of higher education. Nineteen academic administrators were interviewed to examine how and when policies are implemented, and how those responsible for decision-making around student requests for foreign language substitutions as a reasonable accommodation approach their decision-making. Additionally, content analysis of institutional material listed on websites and in documents available to students was conducted to understand in what model(s) of disability substitution requests are rooted. Finally, four students from one of the five institutions were interviewed to contextualize the findings from the institutional administrator interviews and content analysis. The framework of Strategic Ambiguity is utilized to examine how ambiguity in policy creation and implementation can negatively impact the experiences of some students with disabilities in higher education, even as it benefits administrators who can capitalize on ambiguity to align their policy decisions with individual interpretations of fairness. The framework of Universal Design is utilized to examine how diverse perspectives on the comparative importance of language and cultural study may legitimize the expansion of curricular options for all students.

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El-Mekawy, Mohamed Sobih Aly. "From Theory to Practice of Business-IT Alignment : Barriers, an Evaluation Framework and Relationships with Organisational Culture." Doctoral thesis, Stockholms universitet, Institutionen för data- och systemvetenskap, 2016. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:su:diva-129143.

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Business-IT alignment (BITA) continues to be a top management concern. It generally refers to a preferred condition in which the relationship between business and IT is optimised to maximise the business value of IT. Early approaches in both research and practice have focused on the role of IT in supporting business strategies. Today, a more extended approach of BITA has been embraced that recognises soft factors that are related to people and culture issues at both tactical and operational levels of organisations. ‘Why alignment is important’ is not the crucial question today. In fact ‘how it can be achieved and matured’ is the real concern of business executives. There exists a number of theoretical models for conceptualising BITA, however, they have different focuses and contain different BITA components. Therefore, there is a need for a means of supporting practitioners for selecting an appropriate model. Furthermore, there is a need for a more practice-oriented research that target higher maturity of BITA by understanding the organisational context, including barriers that hinders BITA and the mutual relationships between organisational culture and BITA. Thus, the overall problem addressed in the thesis is the following: In spite of extensive literature on business-IT alignment, there is still limited maturity of business-IT alignment in practice due to the limited knowledge on barriers that hinder BITA achievement from practitioners’ perspective, on the means for supporting the selection of an appropriate model for assessing BITA, and on mutual relationships between BITA and organisational culture. Based on this research problem, five research objectives were developed. The first two objectives corresponded to barriers to achieving BITA and supporting the selection of BITA model respectively. The remaining three objectives corresponded to the two unidirectional influences between BITA and organisational culture (OC) and to the mutual relationships between them respectively. Different research methodologies and strategies were applied to achieve the research objectives, including qualitative and quantitative studies as well as design science. The results presented in the thesis, each corresponding to an objective, are the following: A list of barriers that practitioners can use as a basis for better achievement of BITA, a better focus on strategic vs. tactical barriers, and their relationships to BITA components. An evaluation framework that supports practitioners in selecting appropriate BITA models for assessing and modelling BITA. An extended version of the strategic alignment model (SAM) of Luftman (2000), which considers organisational culture. An analysis of the impact of BITA components on organisational culture profiles. A BITA-organisational culture integrated view that supports decision-makers in facilitating decisions regarding both BITA and organisational culture. The results of the research provide both theoretical and empirical contributions to the business-IT alignment research and practice.
MIT

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Mendoza, Anabel Sara Gutierrez. "Alignment of IT projects with business strategy : an analysis of the interrelationships between the factors affecting IS alignment at strategic, tactical and operational levels." Thesis, Brunel University, 2009. http://bura.brunel.ac.uk/handle/2438/3467.

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Despite numerous efforts to integrate business and IS strategic plans, organisations are not delivering the expected benefits from IS investment. To address this issue, IS alignment research has discussed extensively the idea of establishing two-way commitment between business and IS managers. This commitment, however, has proved to be difficult to achieve at strategic level and consequently difficult to transmit to lower levels within organisations. Given that current literature has identified the main factors affecting IS alignment, this research extends the analysis of those factors to tactical and operational levels to develop a model that depicts the dynamic interrelationships between the factors affecting IS alignment. Through an interpretative approach that combines quantitative and qualitative methods, the model was developed, tested and evaluated in three phases. During the exploratory phase the factors IT governance, communication, partnership, IT value, scope & architecture and human resources skills were scrutinised using a pilot case study and a survey. The results aided the selection of relevant variables that could be used in the model to assess alignment across different levels, and therefore, to develop a preliminary model that included the initial relationships between the factors. For the testing phase, a case study approach was selected. An IS alignment assessment process was designed and applied in one SME and one large organisation. Although the assessment process did not prove appropriate in an SME context, the application of the assessment process in the large organisation allowed the identification of the root causes of high or low levels of IS alignment of five strategic IT projects. For the evaluation phase further analysis was conducted to modify the preliminary model in the light of the outcomes from the large organisation. The findings from the evaluation phase helped in the identification of two categories of factors (structural and dynamic) and how they interrelate, and these are incorporated into the final model. Structural factors refer to those cultural and structural forces that determine whether the information systems function is valued or not as a partner in delivering business value from IT investments. On the other hand, the dynamic factors refer to those aspects that impact on IS alignment as a result of the dynamic interaction between the people involved in the strategy formulation and implementation. The model and the assessment process represent a contribution towards a better understanding of the nature of IS alignment.

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Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Strategic Alignment'

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