Reassessing the Role of Information and Communications Technology in Gaining Competitive Advantage

Abstract

Nicholas Carr’s Harvard Business Review article “IT Doesn’t Matter” suggested that ICT (Information and Communications Technology) was no longer a strategic concern for management. Carr’s article and his subsequent book “Does IT Matter?” appear to have had a significant impact and influence on ICT investment and management. This paper examines Carr’s arguments from a series of different perspectives and suggests that it would be unwise to base long-term ICT strategy on his conclusions.