Leading Fundamental Business Change

Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)

• Introduction
  • Background
  • Problem Description
  • Objectives and Delimitation of the Research
• Methodology
  • Scientific Perspectives
  • Setup of the Master Thesis
  • Research Strategy - Expert Interviews
• Aspects of Change and Leadership in Organizations
  • Types of Organizational Change
    • Change Performance / Degree of Change due to Senior (2010)
    • Timing of Organizational Change
    • The Three Stages of Change due to Lewin (1958)
  • Change Processes and Methodology
    • The Eight Stage Model due to Kotter (1996)
  • Psychological and Cultural Aspects
    • Communicating Change
    • Building Trust by Proper Corporate Communication
  • Why Learning and Innovation are Important
• Cloud Computing and its Impact on IT Organizations
  • Traditional Information Technology Usage at Organizations
    • The History of Data Processing and Storage
    • Current Trends in Information Technology
    • Current Corporate Information Technology Challenges
  • Definition and Characteristics of Cloud Computing
    • Understanding the Definition of Cloud Computing
    • Characteristics of Cloud Computing
    • Cloud Computing Service Models
    • Cloud Computing Deployment Models
  • Aspects of the Change from Traditional IT to Cloud-based IT
    • Predictions of the IT environment
    • Traditional Layers of IT Operations
    • Cloud Layers of IT Operations
    • Aspects Concerning IT Security and Legal Considerations
  • Job Description Change of Corporate IT Workers
    • Diversification and Division of IT Workers
    • IT Tasks Affected by the Change
    • IT Roles Affected by the Change
• Process of a Cloud-triggered Business Transformation
  • Relevance for the Organization
    • Classification of the Change
    • Meaning of the Change for the Employees
    • Relevance of Change in Service and IT Governance
  • Finding the Right People
    • Skills Required for Cloud Computing Managers
    • Psychological Barriers
  • Strategy Development and Vision
    • The Need for a Change of Corporate Culture
    • Developing a Vision
    • Guiding the Mission
  • Appropriate Business Change Communication
    • Internal and External Communication
    • Communicating the Change Mission
    • The Urgency of Short-Term Wins and Gains
  • Anchoring Achievements / Refreezing Phase
    • Making the Change Last
    • Preparing for Future Developments
    • Assessing the Risk of Cloud Computing

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)

This master thesis aims to analyze the implications of cloud computing on traditional information technology (IT) departments within organizations, focusing on the challenges and opportunities of this transformative shift. By examining the process of integrating cloud-based solutions, the thesis seeks to understand the necessary changes in organizational culture, leadership, and communication strategies for successful implementation.

• The impact of cloud computing on IT departments and organizational structures
• The necessary changes in leadership and communication strategies to facilitate cloud adoption
• The importance of understanding and managing the risks associated with cloud computing
• The role of organizational culture in shaping successful cloud transformations
• The development of new skills and knowledge for IT professionals in a cloud-based environment

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)

• Introduction: This chapter sets the stage for the research, providing background information on the topic and outlining the specific problem addressed by the study. It also defines the research objectives and the scope of the analysis.
• Methodology: This chapter delves into the research methodology used in the thesis, including the theoretical framework, data collection techniques, and analysis methods employed. It highlights the scientific perspectives informing the research and the specific research strategy utilized, which focuses on expert interviews.
• Aspects of Change and Leadership in Organizations: This chapter explores different types of organizational change, including their performance, timing, and the stages involved in the change process. It introduces key models of change management, such as Lewin's Three Phase Model and Kotter's Eight Stage Model. Additionally, it discusses the importance of communication and trust-building in managing change effectively.
• Cloud Computing and its Impact on IT Organizations: This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of cloud computing, starting with a historical perspective on the evolution of information technology. It defines and describes the characteristics of cloud computing, including its various service and deployment models. The chapter further analyzes the potential implications of cloud computing for traditional IT operations, including job descriptions, roles, and tasks.
• Process of a Cloud-triggered Business Transformation: This chapter examines the process of transforming an organization to leverage cloud computing. It discusses the relevance of cloud adoption for different organizational levels, including the impact on employees, services, and IT governance. The chapter also highlights the importance of finding the right people, developing a strategic vision, and effectively communicating the change to ensure successful implementation.

Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)

This master thesis focuses on the intersection of cloud computing and organizational change, examining the challenges and opportunities presented by the adoption of cloud-based IT solutions within traditional IT departments. The key focus areas include: cloud computing, business transformation, organizational change, IT leadership, communication strategies, risk assessment, and cultural change.