Established by: Head of Department of Informatics, 2017-05-22
Revised by: Head of Department of Informatics, 2017-09-08
Contents
Information technology (IT) is transforming business models, structures and processes, and the instruments for innovation and organisational performance. IT is no longer only a functional resource, rather it is now integrated into the very fabric of many organizations. This course provides an overview of how organisations are using IT in their operations and how envisioned performance improvements can be realized. The focus of the course is on digital transformation which requires an understanding of 1) what the organisation is trying to accomplish, 2) what IT can do, and 3) how to leverage what IT can do to facilitate or enable what the organisation is trying to accomplish. To facilitate development of such understanding, the course deals with issues such as: How do information technologies improve and transform processes, business models, and innovation activities? What structures, processes and managerial actions allow organisations to achieve and sustain organisation performance by leveraging IT? How can we use IT to improve work processes and practices? To explore such issues, the course outlines topics such as business platforms, IT infrastructure, competition in digital markets, IT investments, IT risk management and IT governance.
Expected learning outcomes
Regarding knowledge and understanding the student is, after the course, expected to be able to:
describe and explain the role of information systems in organisations
describe the early history of the information systems discipline
explain how investments in IT could be assessed and managed
Regarding proficiency and aptitude the student is, after the course, expected to be able to:
evaluate how information systems shape business strategy, innovation, and operations in organisations
identify and evaluate emerging information technologies and their significance on digital transformation of organisations
identify and evaluate innovative trends in the organisational use of IT
use and refer to scientific literature in an academic text
Regarding evaluative capacity and approach the student is, after the course, expected to be able to:
critically reflect upon the managerial practices that are vital for leveraging IT in organisations
critically reflect on the possibilities and risks associated with digital transformation of organisations
Required Knowledge
Admission to the course requires 90 credits in informatics, computer science, business administration, media and communication studies, pedagogics, psychology, political science or sociology (or equivalent competence). Also required is English B/6.
Form of instruction
Teaching is done preferably in the form of lectures, seminars, group exercises and supervision in connection with self-studies. During the course necessary computer applications, which students shall use on their own, are introduced and maintained. Some assistance is given in the use of these applications. Some teaching moments may be compulsory. Teaching is normally given in English, but can even be given in Swedish. Good ability in written presentation and English are important for assimilating the course.
Examination modes
Examination is done by individual assignments, active participation in seminars and group work. Examination assumes good ability in written and oral presentation in English. The grade given is pass with distinction, pass or fail. For students who do not obtain a pass after the first attempt an additional examination is normally arranged within a short time afterwards. Students who do not obtain a pass after two examination attempts are allowed to participate in three further examinations. In order to do so the student must register for the course during the term the examination is given. For additional attempts to pass the exam special dispensation is needed from the director of studies or the student counsellor.
If special reasons exist, the examiner has the right to decide on another examination form.
Crediting of a Course An application to transfer credits from previous courses should be sent to the registrar (Registrator, Umeå University, 90187 Umeå). The application is then forwarded to the department of Informatics for assessment. The application must state for which course the credit transfer is requested. Authentic copies of course certificates or equivalent must be presented showing grade, higher education institution, date, field of study, level of study, credit points and so on. Also required is the course syllabus including literature for courses whose credits are to be transferred. For further information see “Transfer of Credits at Umeå University” (DNR: 540-3589-09).
