Dimensions of power and IS implementation

This paper analyzes the failure of an initiative of the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and Public Safety. It argues that an inability to understand power relationships during systems analysis, design, and implementation has serious implication on the well being of an organization and its business processes; thus, it is a key factor in IS’s project failure. The argument is conducted by evaluating various dimensions of power. Lessons are drawn that return to the importance of considering organizational power issues in implementing a successful computer-based system and in realizing an information technology enabled strategic change initiative.