Intentional Alignment and Interoperability in Inter-Organization Information Systems - Intentional Perspectives on Information Systems Engineering - page 104

We adopt a similar view for interoperability. Let us replace the intentions of Fig. 2
by process models, P for I and P1, P2, ,I n respectively. Then by

the same argument as for intentions, process model alignment requires alignment
of P with the individual ones and interoperability requires interaction between the
latter.
In accordance with Fig. 1, the two-dimensional framework of the process level
is driven by the intentional two-dimensional framework. Thus, the process model
To Be aligns with the system intentions To Be and process model interoperability
aligns with intentional interoperability.
Let us now consider the method to be followed in the development of inter-
organizational systems. We assume that individual organizational systems are
already operational and the problem is to bring them together. Thus, we already have
available the goal hierarchies of individual systems as well as their process models.
We further assume that these are aligned to organizational needs. We propose the
following steps for developing the inter-organizational system:

... ,P n for I1, I2, ...

(a) Build goal hierarchy of the inter-organization system To Be: This hierarchy is a
formulation of the intentional requirements of the new system.
(b) Dovetail goal hierarchies of individual systems with that of (a): The goal hierar-
chy of each individual organization becomes part of the hierarchy of the system
To Be. As a result, it is ensured that the intentions of the participating systems
and the new one are properly aligned.
(c) Determine cross-goal hierarchy linkages: Since the new system results from
interoperability, dovetailed goal hierarchies are examined to determine any
cross-hierarchy relationships. These may be in the form of one goal supporting
the other.
(d) Modify the process model of each individual organization to satisfy cross-goal
hierarchy linkages. In order to participate in the new process model, changes
in individual process models may be required to meet cross-goal hierarchy
relationships. These changes are to be identified and defined. In this step.
(e) Combine the process models of (d) to form the process model of the system To
Be. This is the step that makes the collaboration between systems possible.

In the rest of this chapter, we illustrate the foregoing in the case of a supply chain.

3 The Supply Chain System

Consider the problem of materials management. For an organization, the high level
goal of materials management is To provide material to consumption points when
needed . This goal consists of a number of sub goals (see Fig. 3) like Obtain material
at a good price , Ensure quality of material , Ensure timely delivery to consumption
point , Keep proper inventory record . As is well known, these goals are themselves
decomposed till operationalizable goals are reached. From the perspective of align-
ment, it is necessary to ensure that the design of the system reflects these goals truly