Using IT to create business value in China: what can be learned from IT research and practices in the developed countries

As China embarks on the journey of transforming itself from an isolated state-controlled central planning economy into a market-oriented world economic power house, information technology (IT) will increasingly play an important role. The knowledge and experiences accumulated in academic research on and managerial practices in IT in the developed countries over the last three decades can benefit tremendously such a transformation. How can IT be used to create business value in Chinese enterprises as IT begins to permeate all aspects of business operations? Is the 'IT doesn't matter' debate in the USA and developed countries relevant in China? How can China benefit from the successes of IT practices experienced in the developed economies while avoiding the pitfalls? What are the challenges? In this study, we examine different views of IT business value and provide recommendations regarding IT applications in China based on its unique set of cultural, economic and political characteristics. We discuss some lessons and implications for Chinese companies about how to best use the power of IT to create business value.