How do you prove the value of information systems?

1 Define your value proposition

The first step to prove the value of IS is to define your value proposition. This is a clear and concise statement that explains how your IS solves a problem, meets a need, or creates a benefit for your target audience. Your value proposition should answer three questions: What is your IS offering? Who is your IS serving? Why is your IS different or better than others? A good value proposition will help you communicate the purpose, scope, and relevance of your IS to your stakeholders.

2 Identify your key performance indicators

The next step to prove the value of IS is to identify your key performance indicators (KPIs). These are the metrics that you use to evaluate the success and progress of your IS in relation to your goals and objectives. Your KPIs should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Some examples of KPIs for IS are customer satisfaction, user adoption, system availability, data quality, cost savings, revenue generation, and process improvement. You should select the KPIs that best reflect the value proposition of your IS and align with your strategic priorities.

3 Collect and analyze your data

The third step to prove the value of IS is to collect and analyze your data. This is the process of gathering, processing, and interpreting the information that supports your KPIs and value proposition. You should use reliable and valid sources and methods to collect your data, such as surveys, interviews, observations, tests, experiments, logs, reports, and dashboards. You should also use appropriate tools and techniques to analyze your data, such as descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, trend analysis, correlation analysis, regression analysis, and visualization. You should aim to produce clear and meaningful insights that demonstrate the value of your IS in terms of outcomes, impacts, and benefits.

4 Communicate and showcase your results

The final step to prove the value of IS is to communicate and showcase your results. This is the process of presenting and sharing your data and insights with your stakeholders, customers, and partners in a persuasive and engaging way. You should use different formats and channels to communicate and showcase your results, such as reports, presentations, infographics, videos, podcasts, blogs, newsletters, and social media. You should also tailor your message and tone to your audience and context, and highlight the key points and recommendations that show the value of your IS. You should aim to create a compelling story that illustrates the value of your IS in terms of problems solved, needs met, and benefits created.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?