Managed Evolution: A Strategy for Very Large Information Systems

Authors: Stephan Murer, Bruno Bonati, Frank J. Furrer



The authors highlight many different aspects of developing very large information systems ranging from component architecture to organization and culture. Side-stories illustrate many concepts with practical examples experienced by the authors while in charge of the strategic development of the Credit Suisse information system.

Many organizations critically depend on very large information systems. In the authors' experience these organizations often struggle to find the right strategy to sustainably develop their systems. Based on their own experience at a major bank, over more than a decade, the authors have developed a successful strategy to deal with these challenges, including: - A thorough analysis of the challenges associated with very large information systems - An assessment of possible strategies for the development of these systems, resulting in managed evolution as the preferred strategy - Describing key system aspects for the success of managed evolution, such as architecture management, integration architecture and infrastructure - Developing the necessary organizational, cultural, governance and controlling mechanisms for successful execution

Table of contents

Front Matter

Structure, Properties, Challenges and Architecture of Very Large Information Systems
• Front Matter
• Very Large Information System Challenge
• Architecture Management
• Integration Architecture
• Infrastructure

Organization and Management Processes for the Execution of Managed Evolution
• Front Matter
• Business-IT Alignment
• People, Culture and Organization
• Measuring the Managed Evolution

Summary, Conclusions and Outlook
• Front Matter
• Conclusions and Outlook

Back Matter