IT and non‐IT factors influencing the adoption of BSC systems: a Delphi study from Bahrain

Purpose – This study aims to underline the role of information technology (IT) in adopting Balanced Scorecard (BSC) systems/initiatives in Bahrain. It seeks to highlight this role through comparing the IT‐related factors/requirements against the non‐IT‐related ones that contribute to the implementation of such systems. Moreover, it provides a better understanding for the adoption of such systems through investigating the availability of such factors in Bahraini organisations. Design/methodology/approach – A Delphi method was utilised relying on a panel of 67 BSC experts from 34 Bahraini organisations. Findings – The results indicated that IT requirements for adopting BSC initiatives had the same level of importance compared to non‐IT requirements. From the non‐IT‐related requirements, management factors such as “clear strategic management” and “top management support”, and implementation factors such as “preparing implementation plans” and “proper training and guidelines” came on the top of the requirements list. On the other hand, the study suggests software interface characteristics such as “graphical user interface” and “easy to use application”, and data quality factors such as “standard data formats” and “data accuracy” as the top IT‐related requirements. Originality/value – This study extends current research efforts related to the adoption of BSC systems. It provides insights for understanding how organisations get ready to implement such initiatives in both IT and non‐IT‐related areas. Moreover, it equips practitioners with an initial checklist of pre‐requisites for undertaking such performance management systems.