A Comparative Analysis of Information Systems Issues Facing Canadian Business

A national survey of 158 Canadian IS personnel at various organizational levels was conducted using a modiJed Delphi technique and follow-up interviews to ident@ the critical issues in information systems during the next three to five years. Critical information systems issues were identified including I) building a responsive IT injrastructure, 2) improving IS project management practices, and 3) planning and managing communication networks. Significant dtflerences in the rating of the importance of these issues were reported between small and large firms, private andpublic sector firms, IS executives and lower levels of IS personnel. A comparison of the current results with previous U.S. and Canadian studies revealed that Canadian IS personnel are currently placing a stronger emphasis on the need to address technology-related issues rather than managerial issues. Qualitative data to be collected in follow-up interviews will be reported at the conference to cast some light on the reasoning behind the ratings and the sources of information that were used in the assessment of their importance.