Challenges of Global Information Systems

Increasing number of corporations becoming multinational
Global information system: serves organizations in multiple countries
Used by multinational corporations
Overseas operations must abide by local laws

Web became important vehicle for B2B and B2C commerce
Ratio of non-English speakers to English speakers growing
Internet opens enormous global opportunities
Chinese market expected to be largest in future
Web offers opportunities to save on costs

Manuals prepared with animation
Presented in many languages
Global businesses must be sensitive to audiences
Glocalization: design global sites to cater to local needs
McDonalds menu changes to appeal to local palates

International companies “think globally, act locally”
Be sensitive to regional customs
Control must be decentralized
Strategic planning should be global
Can be followed with local flavor

Global information systems face challenges
Technological barriers
Regulations and tariffs
Electronic payment mechanisms
Different language and culture
Economic and political considerations
Different measurement standards
Legal barriers