A System Dynamics Approach for Information Technology Implementation and Sustainment

The goal of this research is to bring a new, dynamic modeling perspective to organizational information technology (IT) implementation systems (using the Air Force GeoBase initiative as a real-world example) without compromising principles from the research literature. Undesired behavior patterns, from historically poor IT implementation performance, versus desired behavior patterns are incorporated into the model structure. Using a system dynamics approach, multiple simulation runs under various initial conditions and organizational contexts are performed and compared over a short-term versus a long-term period of time. Based on these simulation runs, various mixes of management interventions, under varying conditions, are recommended to improve IT implementation performance based on manager and organizational goals. Generally, for better long-term system performance, learning management, with a focus on team learning, is the best single IT implementation tool. With a low level of organizational buy-in at the beginning of the IT implementation effort, change process management should be the initial focus of management effort. Reward system management provides a short-term spark, but its implementation effects are not carried over for long-term sustainment as readily as learning management or change process management. Continuity management, though beneficial, does not provide as much "bang for the buck" as the other management interventions.