Chapter 9

Question 1

Definition of global information systems:

Answer 1

• Information systems that work across national borders
• Facilities communication between headquarters and subsidiaries in other co
• Incorporates all the technologies and applications found in a typical information system
o Gathers, stores, manipulates, and transmits data across cultural and geographic boundaries

Question 2

2 dimensions used to categorize GIS

Answer 2

Control
• It requires: Centralized architecture for data; standardized definitions used across the organization
• Standard formats for reports
• Defined behaviors for different processes
• Performance-tracking system

Coordinate
• It requires:
§ Standardization within departments
§ Ability to communicate these standards to other departments
§ Collaboration systems
§ Technologies that support informal communication and socialization

Question 3

• Advantages of High coordination:

Answer 3

Flexibility to respond to competitors in different countries
• ability to respond in one country to a change in another
• Maintain control of market needs around the world
• Share/transfer knowledge between departments and international branches
• Increased efficiency and effectiveness in meeting customer’s needs
• Reduced operational costs

Question 4

Components of GIS:

Answer 4

Global Database (currency exchange, measurement changes) and Information-Sharing Technologies
• Associated challenges.(Data format and Transborder Data Flow)
• Transborder data flow (TDF): Restricts types of data that can be captured and transmitted in foreign countries
• National laws
• International agreements
• Privacy & Security

Question 5

• Obstacles of Using GIS (5)

Answer 5

• Lack of standardization
• Cultural differences
• Diverse regulatory practices
• Poor telecommunication infrastructures
• Lack of skilled analysts and programmers

Question 6

four commonly accepted types of global organizations

Answer 6

Multinational Organization- ex:Tyco
• Production, sales, and marketing are decentrilized
• Financial management is parents responsibility
• Advantages
• Reduces need for communication between subsidiaries

Global Organization
• Ex: McDonalds
• Subsidiaries rely on headquarters for all processes
• Heavy reliance on headquarters

International otganizaiton
-headquarters expertise for process and production decision

Transnational Organization-Ford
• Parent company and subsidiaries work together
• Understand offshoring and

Question 7

Outsourcing:

Answer 7

Local outsourcing of specific functions to another company

Question 8

Offshoring:

Answer 8

moving functions branch to a foreign country but still controlling