Management of information in the logistics support branch of an Australian defence forces barracks: How soft systems methodology rich pictures can be used to visualise organisational change

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Faculty

Faculty of Business and Public Management

School

School of Business

RAS ID

651

Comments

Van Beek, V., Alver. L., & Williams, M.C. (2002). Management of information in the logistics support branch of an Australian defence forces barracks: How soft systems methodology rich pictures can be used to visualise organisational change. In: Lethbridge, N. (Ed.). E-conomy- from here to where? 3rd international We-B conference. Churchlands, Australia: Edith Cowan University School of Management Information Systems We-B Centre.

Abstract

This case study is used to demonstrate how rich pictures can be used as metaphors to envisage organisational change. The Logistic Support Branch procures goods and services for the Defence Corporate Support Centre, which has the responsibility to provide administrative support regional Australian Defence Force units. The efficient and effective management of information within this unit is essential to the overall performance and quality of outcomes. The Australian Government are putting greater pressure on the unit to outsource non-core activities under the Defence Reform Program. Using a soft systems methodology approach, the management of information is investigated with the outcome highlighting areas for changes to be made. The focus of the research conducted was to investigate ways in which the organisation could integrate its electronic, organisational and social networks to create a sustainable competitive advantage. In particular the potential for electronic commerce is considered. This report analyses rich pictures visualising organisation change to provoke recommendations to improve the flow of communication and management of information within the Logistic Support Branch.

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