MIS planning: A methodology for systems prioritization

Abstract The literature proposes a number of approaches that allow for the consideration of corporate goals and objectives in prioritizing information systems using both financial and non-financial criteria. Research in cognitive psychology suggests that an individual confronted with a simultaneous consideration of both qualitative and quantitative factors tends to assign greater salience to concrete factors than to more abstract criteria. This paper proposes a multi-dimensional methodology that allows for the prioritization of systems proposals based on attributes that are mostly qualitative as the first step in the resource allocation phase of MIS planning. This initial prioritization is used in conjunction with other quantitative factors to arrive at a final system portfolio. The methodology is illustrated with the aid of a case study conducted at a non-profit organization.