Flexibility is the Key to Success

During the early 1990s companies concentrated on reorganizing internal business processes. In the mid of 1990s, production networks, virtual companies and intercompany integration moved into the center of discussion, often summed up by the term Electronic Commerce.

Globalizations, increasing competition, mergers and acquisition as well as new technical options are factors that force many companies to a fundamental restructuring process, which can not be accomplished with traditional change and restructuring activities. Flexibility becomes their new mission statement. This requires flexible organizational structures and business processes that only can be achieved with modern IT infrastructure.

By means of Internet technology and standardization, companies are able to increase productivity, redefine their value chain, and expand in directions that haven't been possible so far. Information systems, and in particular Inter-organizational Systems (IOS), allow for the integration of business processes between organizations and therefore forming the center of any change management in an inter-organizational context.

Inter-organizational Systems Accelerate Processes

Inter-organizational Systems (IOS) are computer-enabled, net-based, inter-corporate distributed information systems, which support the formation of company networks and collaborative production of goods and services.

They improve the profitability and efficiency of cross-company co-operation by tapping out the full potential of business application systems and modern communication infrastructure (e.g. Internet or mobile communication). With this, they have an impact on company and industry structures. Additionally, they create the necessary flexibility, which enables companies to quickly adapt on changing business situations.

The Application Areas are Extensive

IOS research is engaged with the scientific examination and the development of solutions for practice-related questions towards conception, development and implementation of Inter-organizational Systems.

Typical areas of research are, e.g.,

• the conception and realization of Web-based inter-company application systems,
• standards, methods for Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) and the integration of application systems or
• inter-company networks for integrated mass customization systems or supply network management.