A fractal perspective on competencies necessary for managing information systems

In this paper, we present a view of the necessary skill set for managing information technology (IT) in organisations. Our assessment is based on viewing this task as part of managing within a nonlinear complex system. While managing IT in nonlinear complex systems, managers accept that control is neither achievable nor desirable. Rather, IT systems are conceptualised as embodying a fractal quality in which they must be customised to reflect the most essential aspects of the organisation\u27s business policies. The manager\u27s job becomes one of assessing whether there is a continued coherence between what the changing organisation is doing and what the system can provide, and thus embodies special abilities of pattern recognition and adaptability. Copyright © 2005 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd