Process based information systems evaluation: towards the attributes of “PRISE”

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the importance of undertaking a systemic view of information systems evaluation that augments the frequently reported prescriptive (cost/benefit) analysis approaches. Design/methodology/approach – The paper adopts a qualitative case perspective and derives a framework for substantive information systems evaluation factors (PRISE). Three empirical formulations are considered and a comparison made to determine the content and context of the findings. Findings – The findings support the flexibility and relevance of PRISE as a framework for information systems evaluation. It notes the objectives, relations and components for explicitly identifying the outputs required to make a valid assessment of the systems. Research limitations/implications – The study is limited contextually where attention should be made not to generalise the findings beyond the empirical findings within the case analysis. Further studies may usefully include the main features of PRISE but taking into account their unique research environment. Practical implications – The study supports a practitioner perspective through a consideration of a holistic approach to information systems evaluation. Managers may implement the notion of including people, resources and benefits in their attempts to determine the added value of these systems to the organisation that extends beyond a simple financial calculation. Originality/value – The paper is highly original as the framework has been derived through both theoretical constructs and empirical analysis. It provides an innovative approach to information system evaluation that is intellectually sound and practically orientated.