The dual lens method: a practical approach to information systems strategy in SME's

This chapter describes the development and testing of a method for information systems (IS) strategy formulation in small and medium enterprises (SMEs). A case study describing a practical experience with the method is presented. Essentially the method is comprised of two complementary analyses: an externally focused strategic analysis and an internally focused business process analysis. The method draws on the work of Levy and Powell (1999, 2000). The method is simple and clearly prescribed and does not require, as does the approach of Levy and Powell (1999, 2000, 2005), the selection of approaches from a range of applicable techniques. However, before assessing IS strategy formulation approaches for SMEs, including the work of Levy and Powell (1999, 2000, 2005) we will seek to justify the need for an IS Strategy Formulation Method for SMEs and then reflect on the importance of relevance and practicality, as two features of the approach which are important considerations in terms of establishing the method in practice.