In this paper, we improve on a previously proposed algorithm for exploring a 2-D environment with multiple robots using Potential Games. A potential game is a type of game that results in coordinated behaviours amongst players. This is done by enforcing strict rules for each player in selecting an action from its action set. As part of this game, we define a potential function for the game that is meaningful in terms of achieving the greater objective of exploring a space. Furthermore, an objective function is assigned for each player from this potential function. We then create an algorithm for the exploration of an obstacle-filled bounded space, and demonstrate through simulation how it outperforms an uncoordinated algorithm by reducing the time needed to uncover the space. This algorithm is then improved by having robots predict the future positions of all other robots.

In recent years, information and communication technologies (ICTs), particularly web-based technologies, have created a more complex and challenging information technology (IT) environment for governments throughout the world. As more and more activities are migrating from physical to virtual media, users and employees have been faced with relentless pressure to use technology. This calls for a greater understanding of the human, social and cultural issues involved in the acceptance of IT systems by all stakeholders of the organisation. Indeed increasingly it has been acknowledged that one of the main determinants of IT success is organisational culture, and consequently the purpose of this research is to examine cultural barriers and enablers which have impeded or facilitated the implementation of E-Government initiatives in Malaysia. An anthropological framework based on the Grid and Group Cultural Theory of Mary Douglas is used to study this issue in more depth. This framework identifies four cultural cosmologies – hierarchism, egalitarianism, individualism and fatalism. We argue that cultural cosmologies can have both enabling and constraining characteristics and that cultural pluralism in the enabling forms of hierarchism, egalitarianism and individualism is essential for the successful implementation and operation of E-Government services. We illustrate these points through two case studies in Malaysia – one displaying constraining characteristics, which impeded IT implementation/use and the other displaying enabling characteristics, which facilitated IT implementation/use. Finally, a cross comparison of the two case studies on cultural issues is also provided.

The paper focuses on the need to develop a measure of information system performance that is usable in a case study setting. A measurement technique is presented based upon interpreting self-assessed rating data in conjunction with interviews from informants within the insurance industry. The operationalisation of the technique builds upon developing work from previous studies and applying the disconfirmations of expectations paradigm in a qualitative setting. A number of conceptual issues are raised relating to the nature of expectations and problems associated with measuring expectation gaps are also discussed. Findings from a self-assessed rating instrument are presented and the measurement technique discussed. Benefit success outcomes are interpreted as measures of realised performance against original expectations. Three benefit success outcomes are defined as: deficiency, where performance falls below expectation; neutrality, where performance meets expectations; and efficiency, where performance exceeds expectations. This surrogate measure of benefit success allows managers the ability to reflect upon overall performance to date. The paper also identifies a number of key lessons for managers in developing successful electronic trading.

Undoubtedly technology has the potential to provide significant strategic and operational benefits to organisations in the electronic age. Unfortunately the reality is that many organisations are failing to reap the expected benefits from their investment in information systems. This, along with the ubiquitous presence of technology, incessant technological changes and the unrelenting advance of e-commerce, means information systems management (ISM) has become a matter of major concern to many organisations. Given the paramount importance of ISM to organisations, this article seeks to critically examine three of the most fundamental and perhaps elusive aspects of ISM in the context of a rapidly changing technological environment – planning, alignment and managerial responsibilities. Since ISM is a multifaceted concept, it would be futile to attempt a comprehensive analysis of the subject in a single article and hence the above focus on a small number of issues. More specifically, the organisational and managerial aspects of ISM would form the core of this article rather than the more technical issues (e.g. IT infrastructure development). It will also explore problem areas in the literature that represents gaps within both theory and in the prevalent methodologies employed to examine those theories.