STRATEGIC PLANNING FOR OFFICE AUTOMATION

The purpose of this study was to further development of a theory of office automation (OA) strategic planning by establishing a conceptual model, investigating actual adherence to the conceptual model and determining if adherence to the model provides greater perceived value with the results of the process. In conducting this study, empirical evidence was obtained from Fortune 500 firms.; Adherence and perceptions were determined from data collected through questionnaires using Likert-type scales with values ranging from 1 to 4. Major findings were based on responses of 38 to 59 Fortune 500 firms, depending on the statistical tests performed.; Eight inferential tests were made with the responses to the questionnaires. Seven were student-t tests of perceived values of steps in the conceptual model, which tested whether differences between firms that adhered most versus those that adhered least were significant. The eighth test was a multiple regression analysis which tested whether adherence to the seven steps produced a significant overall perceived value.; The first finding was a conceptual model that consisted of seven steps. The steps were to (1) appoint OA task force; (2) set and link OA mission; (3) scan OA environment; (4) set and link OA objectives and goals; (5) set and link OA strategies; (6) surface assumptions and critical success factors; and (7) set OA guidelines.; Among the statistical findings, support was provided for six of the steps of the model being associated with greater perceived value. Also, support was provided for a level of overall perceived value that could be produced by adhering to the seven steps of the model.; In conclusion, the findings provide a pragmatic strategic planning framework and process of seven interrelated steps and activities which can help bring structure to OA strategic planning. They also provide a frame of reference by which firms can compare, monitor and organize OA planning efforts. Further, they indicate that the conceptual model can be a usable approach for firms which want to do OA strategic planning. Additionally, the findings show that adherence to the conceptual model can produce greater results for an OA strategic planning process. Finally, the findings have practical implications for Fortune 500 firms and, likely, for other similar large firms which will do strategic planning for office automation.