Choices in Systems Acquisition Overview
This week we look at the choices an organization must make when acquiring new hardware and software. The choices usually aren't as easy as in government where the contracts often seem to go to friends and campaign contributors. In business, there is usually some responsibility to try to make the right choices.
Organizations have more than one alternative way to obtain ISs and IT services. Purchasing "canned" software and outsourcing parts or all of the corporate IS functions are becoming increasingly popular. On the one hand, more choices offer more flexibility; on the other hand, they make the selection process more complex. You should be aware of the pros and cons of each alternative.