Understanding the Information Content in MIS Management Tools

This article suggests that failure to address the uncertainty and equivocality that exist during the development and implementation of a new management information system is a major reason why projects fail. Uncertainty and equivocality occur naturally at different intensities in the various stages of the systems development life cycle. They can also be introduced into the situation based on the level of technology of the new system. Specific management tools that can be effective for reducing uncertainty, resolving equivocality, or both, are presented and evaluated according to the capability of each for eliminating such conditions. General guidelines concerning application of the framework are provided for managers.