Information systems for e-business continuance: a systems approach

Purpose - In today's e-business, system downtime is an unacceptable option since each hour, even minute of downtime may generate negative financial effects. In order to stay competitive, e-business must be continuous from a data availability perspective and agile with regard to data access. Therefore, there is a need for an information system which can support such a kind of business which will have high availability ratios. This study seeks to address this issue. Design/methodology/approach - A systems approach has been used. Methodological framework is based on a MS/OR-based definition of a system given by C.W. Churchman. Findings - The paper presents a framework for the development of an e-business-oriented information system from business continuance perspective. It identifies high system availability and agile data access as two critical attributes in designing information systems for e-business. In addition, it identifies two sets of information technologies (business continuity and business agility drivers) that are crucial in developing such information systems. Practical implications - The presented framework can be used while selecting an appropriate operating platform in order to achieve higher levels of continuous computing. Originality/value - Systems approach as defined by C.W. Churchman has been applied in the field of information systems for e-business continuance.