Article Title
Exploring Information Technology Flexibility and Increased Complexity: Is Management Prepared?
Abstract
Information technology (IT) flexibility has become a key enabler of increased IT effectiveness, towards improved IT-business alignment and sustained competitive advantage (Ness, 2005). However, as has been shown through this exploratory literature review, higher levels of IT flexibility also increase the level of complexity to be managed (Young, 2007; Rettig, 2007). Unfortunately, it was also found that management does not appear to be aware and/or prepared to manage the increased complexity (Wheatley, 2000; Lee, 2003), possibly resulting in more harm than good. This study are hoped to alert both IT and business management as to the opportunities existing within the area of IT flexibility, but also the risks involved if the resulting complexity level is not satisfactorily recognized and managed.
