Alignment between business strategies and information system strategies (strategic alignment) and strategic alignment research in accommodation enterprises in Antalya region

SUMMARYAlignment between business and information system (IS) strategies is described as ?strategicalignment?. Several prior studies have frequently emphasized the importance of strategicalignment. Although there are many conceptual models that emphasis on the importance ofalignment, or synergy, between IS and the organization as a whole, very few empiricalresearch has been done. Most empirical research investigated strategic alignment by usingqualitative methods such as interview and case studies at planning level. There is no researchconducted to examine actual strategic alignment of organizations.This doctorate thesis seeks to contribute to the literature on strategic IS management byproviding multi-item and multi-dimensional scales to evaluate actual strategic alignment oforganizations. It aims to do so in the light of prior theory on business and IS strategies. Inrelated literature, it is believed that there is ideal alignment pattern between business and ISstrategies. This belief is empirically investigated by using theory-based alignment patterns inthis thesis.Business strategies are examined by using Venkatraman?s (1989) measure of businessstrategy. Three different strategic orientations were obtained by factor analysis. IS strategiesare examined by using a scale which is developed in this study, measures IS types because, itis emphasized in related literature that different IS strategies necessitate different ISportfolios. According to these portfolios and their characteristics, three different IS strategieswere obtained. Alignment then was examined by regression analysis between the threebusiness strategic orientation and three IS strategy types.This doctorate thesis is divided in to three sections. Section 1 introduces strategy and ISconcepts. Section 2 develops the theoretical background for this study. In this section,conceptual models and approaches that attempt to explain strategic alignment were explainedand prior empirical researches were summarized. In the last section, the methods of datacollection and analysis are described. In conclusion, Findings, implication, limitations andrecommendations for further research are presented.