A comparative analysis of information systems issues facing Canadian business

A national survey of 158 Canadian IS personnel at various organizational levels was conducted using a modified Delphi technique and follow-up interviews to identify the critical issues in information systems during the next three to five years. Critical information systems issues were identified including: building a responsive IT infrastructure; improving IS project management practices; and planning and managing communication networks. Significant differences in the rating of the importance of these issues were reported between small and large firms, private and public sector firms, IS executives and lower levels of IS personnel. A comparison of the current results with previous US and Canadian studies revealed that Canadian IS personnel are placing a stronger emphasis on the need to address technology-related issues rather than managerial issues.