The Research Of Multi-level Business-IT Alignment Dynamics Based On Complex Adaptive Systems

As a classic topic in the Management Information Systems(MIS)research field. A large number of theoretical and empirical studies indicate that, companies can improve organizational performance through effective Business-IT alignment. However, in a dynamic environment, various unpredictable changes resulting in the difficult for alignment to maintenance. So the dynamics of alignment attention of the scholars. Therefore, there have important theoretical and practical value to research the current study situation of Business-IT alignment, mechanism of multi-level alignment and factors of dynamics alignment.First, using Social Network Analysis(SNA) to carding the network structure of Business-IT alignment research field. Second, construct a multi-level Business-IT alignment model and combined with longitudinal case study. Last, based on the model and case study before, achieve the multi-agent model and simulation. Specifically, the main contents are as follows:(1) The study of IT alignment current search situation. Using Social Network Analysis, scientific mapping and statistical analysis. Showing the current research situation, development context, important papers and research topics of Business-IT alignment field with a visualization pattern. Analyze the network structure of research areas, summarize the current search insufficient and point the future direction. Purposes of this study and the significance of the study provide strong support and guidance.(2) The study of multi-level Business-IT alignment model based on Complex Adaptive Systems. Expand alignment to the individual-level alignment and strategy-level alignment. Construct a multi-level Business-IT alignment model,clarify the profile, dimensions and ideal alignment patterns of alignment. Using Haier Group's longitudinal case study, reveal the emergence process of alignment from individual-levee to the strategy-level. Furthermore, analysis the factors that influence the alignment degree among the dynamics process.(3) The study of the emergence process and evolution mechanism between individual-level and strategy-level alignment. Used multi-agent model and simulation, set the parameter of the variable in the model(attributes and rules of business executive and IT executive), build the interaction relationship and situational variables among the agents from the perspective of knowledge sharing. Explanation how the executives choose business strategy and structure, IT strategy and structure in different dynamics environment degree, then measuring the Business-IT alignment degree, analysis the trajectories of Business-IT alignment, reveal the emergence process and evolution regular pattern from individual-level alignment to strategy-level alignment.