Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Postgraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2015-2016 (archived)

Module BUSI54215: Information Systems - Realising the Strategic Potential (DL)

Department: Business School (Business)

BUSI54215: Information Systems - Realising the Strategic Potential (DL)

Type Open Level 4 Credits 15 Availability Available in 2015/16 Module Cap
Tied to N1D507
Tied to N1D707
Tied to N1DM07

Prerequisites

  • None

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None.

Aims

  • This module provides an introduction to a benefit driven fremwork for Information Systems. The aim of the module is to equip business managers to play an effective role in enabling their organsiations to realise the competitve potential of Information Systems.

Content

  • A framework for Information Systems strategy.
  • Sources of benefits from Information Systems.
  • The Benefits Management process for an Information Systems investment.
  • Identifying oppertunities for Information Systems.
  • Benefits planning for an Information Systems.
  • Stakeholder management.
  • The Information Systems project lifecycle and a framework for the management of an Information Systems project.
  • Adapting the project approach to the context.
  • Risk management.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • Articulate a framework for IS strategy.
  • Have a critical appreciation of the key factors enabling a successful approach to realising benefits from IS investments.
  • Have a critical awareness of the sources of value provided by IS and be able to illustrate the business oppertunities provided by major trends in IS/IT.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • Apply a range of specialist techniques for identifying oppertunities for IS that would contribute value to an organisation.
  • Be able to discuss and apply a number of key practices addressing the business issues of benefits realisation from IS.
Key Skills:

    Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

    • Through a combination of learning materal, self assessed exercises and a formative assignment on key topical issues, together with guided reading.
    • On the DL MA Programme each module is delivered in discrete Units which are equivalent to a lecture session. A DL Unit normally consists of specially written material, directed reading, reflection through self-assessed assignments and guidance for further reading.
    • Each student is allocated a Tutor for each Module. the Tutor is tasked with providing feedback on formative work and is available for individual consultation as necessary. Tutoring is normally provided at a distance and may be conducted by email, telephone, post or fax.
    • The DL Programme offers annual residential seminars. In addition to offering core curriculum, the seminars provide the opportunity for DL Students to interface with members of Faculty, meet Tutors and to interact with other members of the student cohort.
    • Tutorials are conducted by email, post or fax. Students are unlikely to require more than 5 hours of telephone support form a tutor combined with a further 5 hours of tutor time in answering questions recevied by post, fax or email.

    Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

    Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
    Units 9
    Tutorials 5
    Residential seminar
    Preparation & Reading
    Total 150

    Summative Assessment

    Component: Assignment Component Weighting: 100%
    Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
    Written assignment 2,000 words maximum 100%

    Formative Assessment:

    Written assignment of 2000 words (maximum).


    Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University