What sources and techniques can you use to analyze your information systems environment and competitors?

1 Internal analysis

The first step is to assess your own information systems environment, which includes your hardware, software, data, network, and human resources. You need to identify the strengths and weaknesses of your current systems, as well as the gaps and needs that you want to address. You can use tools such as SWOT analysis, value chain analysis, and business process modeling to evaluate how your information systems support your business goals and activities, and how they can be improved or replaced.

2 External analysis

The second step is to examine the external factors that affect your information systems environment, such as customers, suppliers, regulations, industry trends, and competitors. You need to understand the opportunities and threats that these factors pose for your information systems strategy, as well as the best practices and benchmarks that you can learn from. You can use tools such as PESTEL analysis, Porter's five forces analysis, and competitive intelligence to scan the macro and micro environments that influence your information systems decisions and performance.

3 Gap analysis

The third step is to compare your internal and external analysis results, and identify the gaps between your current and desired information systems environment. You need to prioritize the gaps based on their impact and urgency, and define the objectives and requirements that you want to achieve with your information systems strategy. You can use tools such as gap analysis matrix, SMART goals, and MoSCoW method to clarify and communicate the scope and criteria of your information systems projects and initiatives.

4 Solution analysis

The fourth step is to explore the possible solutions that can help you close the gaps and meet the objectives and requirements that you defined in the previous step. You need to consider the technical, financial, organizational, and ethical aspects of each solution, and evaluate their feasibility, suitability, and acceptability. You can use tools such as feasibility study, cost-benefit analysis, risk analysis, and stakeholder analysis to weigh the pros and cons of each solution, and select the best one for your information systems strategy.

5 Implementation analysis

The fifth step is to plan and execute the implementation of the solution that you selected in the previous step. You need to define the tasks, resources, timelines, and deliverables that are involved in the implementation process, and monitor and control the progress and quality of the work. You can use tools such as project management software, Gantt charts, critical path method, and quality assurance techniques to manage the implementation of your information systems solution, and ensure that it meets the expectations and standards.

6 Evaluation analysis

The sixth step is to measure and review the outcomes and impacts of the implementation of your information systems solution. You need to compare the actual results with the expected results, and identify the benefits and drawbacks of your information systems solution. You can use tools such as performance indicators, feedback surveys, audits, and post-implementation reviews to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of your information systems solution, and learn from the successes and failures.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?