Generating an Optimal Information System: PMAX-SDLC and the Redirection of MIS Research (or How to Help Joe Eat Salmon)

Abstract:It is argued that information systems should be treated as any other input into the firm's production process and, as such, should be selected based on their contribution to the profit of the firm. It is argued that the present systems development life cycle (sdlc) heuristics lead to systems which are feasible and satisficing, but do not lead to a profit maximizing design. An alternative strategy—profit-maximizing systems development life cycle (PMAX-SDLC)—is proposed which is based on the use of process models. These models have their origin in the economics literature and were developed to accurately characterize engineering production processes. Although PMAX-SDLC is more complex than the current sdlc, several empirical conjectures are presented which would support the notion that the potential benefits of redirecting management information systems (mis) research toward optimal systems design could be large.Key Words: Systems development life cyclesystems analysis and designoptimal information systems Additional informationNotes on contributorsJames R. MarsdenJames R. Marsden is a Professor of Economics at the University of Kentucky. He received his Ph.D from Purdue University in 1970. He has been affiliated with Texas A & M, the University of North Carolina, the University of York (England), Purdue University, and the University of Arizona. His current interests include quantitative methods, information systems design, and artificial intelligence.David E. PingryDavid E. Pingry is an Associate Professor of Economic and Management Information Systems at the University of Arizona. He received his Ph.D. from Purdue University in 1971. He has been affiliated with Virginia Polytechnic Institute and Purdue University. His current interests include information system design and organization theory.

• 저널Journal of Management Information Systems · 3(1) · 32–51
• 토픽Data Management and Algorithms · Signal Processing
• DOI10.1080/07421222.1986.11517753
• 저자James R. Marsden, David E. Pingry