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Chapter 2 Collaboration Information Systems
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Figure 2-3
Collaboration Needs
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Solving Problems

Solving problems is the third primary reason for collaborating. A problem is a perceived difference
between what is and what ought to be. Because it is a perception, different people can have different
problem definitions.
Therefore, the first and arguably the most important task for a problem-solving collaborative
group is defining the problem. For example, the Falcon Security team has been assigned the problem
of determining whether 3D printing drones is a viable option. As stated as part of the informing
purpose, the group needs first to ensure that the team members understand this goal and have a
common understanding of what 3D printing entails.
See the Guide on pages 106–107 However, because a problem is a difference between what is and what ought to be, the state-
to learn one technique that business ment “reduce operational expenses” does not go far enough. Is saving one dollar enough of a
professionals use to obtain a reduction? Is saving $100,000 enough? Does it take $1,000,000 for the reduction to be enough?
common definition of a problem. A better problem definition would be to reduce operational expenses by 10 percent or by $100,000
That technique requires effective
communication. or some other more specific statement of what is desired.
Figure 2-4 lists the principal problem-solving tasks. Because this text is about information
systems and not about problem solving per se, we will not delve into those tasks here. Just note
the work that needs to be done, and consider the role of feedback and iteration for each of these
tasks.

Managing Projects

Managing projects is a rich and complicated subject, with many theories and methods and tech-
niques. Here we will just touch on the collaborative aspects of four primary project phases.
Projects are formed to create or produce something. The end goal might be a marketing plan,
the design of a new factory, or a new product, or it could be performing the annual audit. Because
projects vary so much in nature and size, we will summarize generic project phases here. Figure 2-5
shows project management with four phases, the major tasks of each, and the kinds of data that
collaborative teams need to share.

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Figure 2-4
Problem-Solving Tasks