Discuss the importance of strategic planning for information systems (IS). What do you think is most important, disaster recovery and business continuity, or looking forward to new technology and...

Strategic planning in IS
Strategic planning is a process in organization wherein strategies are defined along with direction as well as decision about resources allocation such as to pursue the strategy. Priorities are generally set in the strategic planning which may also extend to control mechanism in order to guide strategy implementation. In an organization, information system has assumed an increased strategic role that helps to conduct the daily activities, proper functioning and supports making of decisions as and when required. In an organization, information system acts as a strategic resource whose opportunities can be divided into 4 major areas-
· Competitive advantage gains.
· Performance and productivity improvement
· New ways of management and organizing are enabled.
· New business development.
In order to ensure the investment effectiveness in Information system, it has to incorporate the planning policies of company within strategic IS planning activities. Also, implementing Strategic IS planning must have objective of aligning organization’s business strategy with IS investment. (Bozarth,2006). Competitive advantage and goals accomplishment is ensured with the help of strategic planning in information system. SISP is establishment process of a program for use and implementation of Is such as to optimize the effectiveness of information resources of firm along with using them in order to support overall objectives of enterprises. (Remenji,1991). Formulation of IS objectives, strategies and policies definition to achieve them and detailed plan development so as to effect policies and strategies. (Lederer&Sethi, 1998). One major importance of SISP is that it can enhance effectiveness, efficiency and decision making of the firm.
To implement SISP, two methodologies are used-
1. Impact methodology such as looking forward to new technology and business trends.
2. Alignment methodology...