Factors in Management Information System Failures.

This report surveys current literature 1970 - 1980 on factors that can adversely affect the successful completion and execution of a management information system project. Several areas are examined, including 1 technology, 2 the human resource, 3 monetary allocations, and 4 the development of knowledge during the project life cycle. Some of the problems that exist are 1 mismanagement of technology and failing to understand its role in MIS, 2 inadequate verbal and written communication skills, 3 insufficient support and involvement on the part of top management, 4 failure to have a definitive approach to project development, 5 inadequate documentation of requirements and specifications, 6 improper use of personnel, 7 instability to quantify intangible costs and benefits, 8 inadequate documentation of planning and development stages, and 9 a scarcity of empirical research for validating the perceived causes of failure in MIS projects. The Management Integrated Model Information, Capital and Control System MIMIC2S is presented as an example of the type model needed for successful development and execution of any project to include a MIS.