Strategic planning for information systems – a case study of a UK metropolitan council

A case study of a UK metropolitan council is presented which examines, over an 11-year period using document analysis and staff interviews, the approach the council has evolved to develop a strategic information systems plan. The approach is analyzed using a planning reference model. The existence of a political, as opposed to a textbook, approach to planning is identified, the reasons for this are described, and some suggestions are made for research for the further understanding of planning, as well as suggestions for modifications to textbook planning approaches.