Suggested answers to discussion questions

Accounting Information Systems

CHAPTER 20


INTRODUCTION TO SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT; SYSTEMS ANALYSIS


SUGGESTED ANSWERS TO DISCUSSION QUESTIONS


20.1 The approach to long-range AIS planning described in this chapter is important for large organizations with extensive investments in computer facilities. Should small organizations with far fewer information systems employees attempt to implement planning programs? Why or why not? Be prepared to defend your position to the class.

Yes, companies with few IS employees should attempt to implement planning programs. This is particularly true if the company or its computer usage is growing. The extent of the planning should be commensurate with the size of the computer facility, reliance on system information, and the potential value of the company’s system.

Planning produces benefits even if the planning effort is minimal. In the smallest facility, the plan may consist simply of a few pages of thoughts and projects that are prepared and reviewed periodically by the person in charge of the system. It could also consist of a bare bones cost-benefit analysis.

A smaller company will typically have fewer funds than a large company will. Therefore, inadequate planning can be more disastrous and financially draining for small companies.

20.2 You are a consultant advising a firm on the design and implementation of a new system. Management has decided to let several employees go after the system is implemented. Some have many years of company service.

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  Tell employees what is going to happen to them as soon as possible.
  

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  Institute a hiring freeze so staff can be reduced by attrition.
  

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  Retrain displaced employees for other jobs.
  

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  Offer early retirement to older employees.
  

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  Offer retirement incentives.
  

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  Offer displaced employees comparable positions in other divisions of the company.
  

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  Hire a personnel-consulting firm to help displaced employees find alternative employment.
  

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  Train displaced employees for positions in the new system.
  

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  Encourage part-time work or job-sharing.