PUTTING SOFT OR METHODS TO WORK - INFORMATION-SYSTEMS STRATEGY-DEVELOPMENT AT RICHARDS-BAY

The development of an information systems (IS) strategy for a mineral extraction and processing plant operated by Rio Tinto Zinc (RTZ) in So uth Africa is described. The participative approach used was developed from soft OR and systems thinking. The aim of the Richards Bay projec t was to test commercially whether the Participative Information Manag ement Strategy (PIMS) methodology could be used as a standard method t o be applied to the development of an information systems strategy at any mine site. The paper describes the implementation of the process a nd the problems encountered. More generally it discusses the diffusion of new ideas in an international company, illustrated by the use of t he participative approach for other activities including systems devel opment. Conclusions are drawn about the value of participative approac hes based on soft OR in this context.