The changing role of the information manager

Explores the implications of one model associated with the changing business environment, for the nature of information management and the role of the information manager. Peters' model of a successful business is characterized by an organization which: has niche oriented market creators; possesses a flat management structure with fewer layers; is fast in responding and adapting; has quality concerns; is internationalist, even if small; possesses smaller or stand-alone business units within bigger organizations gain sharing, valuing participation and adding value through people. Argues that in such organizations, effective information management is of central importance, but may not always be easy to achieve. In particular, smaller businesses have a reputation for poor utilization of formal information systems. In such an environment it is especially important that informal information management approaches be exploited to the full. A better understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of informal and formal information management within smaller organizations and stand-alone business units is essential for successful businesses