An investigation of user-led system design: rational and political perspectives
Communications of the ACM - Special section on management of information systems
Information systems and user resistance: theory and practice
The Computer Journal
Power, politics, and MIS implementation
Communications of the ACM
Principles of Management Information Systems
Principles of Management Information Systems
Stop the life-cycle, I want to get off
ACM SIGSOFT Software Engineering Notes
Rituals in information system design
MIS Quarterly
Information system development in the bookmaking industry: Impact on counter staff
International Journal of Information Management: The Journal for Information Professionals
Systems analysis: The need for a better understanding
International Journal of Information Management: The Journal for Information Professionals
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What systems analysts believe about users and organizations inevitably shapes the practice of information systems development (ISD) but these beliefs can prove to be fallacious. In this article, five widely-held beliefs are discussed. They are: user involvement is beneficial; resistance to ISD should be overcome; integration of systems is a desirable and attainable goal; 'our way is best'; organizational issues are not the concern of systems professionals. Using detailed case material from the USA and Canada, each belief is matched with empirical evidence revealing a large gap between belief and practice and between practice and the needs of the organization. The article ends with a discussion of the findings and gives pointers to improved practice.