Information Systems at Utilities: An Issue of Value

Abstract

Although a variety of IS issues such as containing costs and developing systems that meet users’ needs should be addressed, a recent survey of utility executives reveals that the primary issue of importance for an organization is the overall financial value that the IS function provides. The survey also reveals the specific rankings of several strategic IS issues and the actions these executives would take to address these issues.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Robert C. Arnold

Robert C. Arnold is a managing consultant with Cresap's Information Technology Practice, Chicago. He has more than 20 years of experience in consulting and line management. Previously, Arnold was vice-president of MIS for a chemical manufacturer and held several IS management positions at a major airline. He has a SA degree and an MS degree in business administration from the University of Missouri and is a member of the Computer and Automated Systems Associations of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers and of the Society for Information Management.

William W. Clow

William W. Claw is a consultant with Cresap's Energy Services Practice. For the last four years, he has specialized in consulting to electric and gas utilities. Previously, Clow worked for two Chicago-area advertising agencies. He has a BS degree in communications and an MBA degree from the University of Illinois.