Information Systems Strategy

The components of information systems all play an important role in the functioning of the systems.  Networks influence the sharing of information.  The hardware and software influence the input, processing of data and the output.   The databases in information systems are used for storage of information.

There is tracking and reporting of sales information in an automated way.  This also involves the use of online technology like rich dynamic websites, online catalogues and online shopper tools. Mobile technology and cloud computing are among the factors that have shaped the evolution of information systems. Cloud computing is a concept that has come up due to advancements in technology.
 
Since organizational goals is ever-change, IT strategies shouldn’t be developed for a long-term and not re-examine periodically. This is why, IT planning is a continuous process.

Although, firms expect benefits from IT alignment, they suffer from achieving the desirable alignment. But, once alignment is achieved and executed properly it becomes a competitive advantage for the firms.

You mentioned " leadership don’t understand the value of IT and are hesitant to abandon outdated technology which involved significant capital expenditure, or when IT decisions are made separately". I believe these are the most common challenges being faced by IT strategic plan implementer which might be seen as a mis-coordination or misunderstanding issues between both entities.

I would share with you "Linking IT and business strategic planning is essential and critical for a successful implementation and utilization of both plans. Failing to develop effective strategic planning might increase organization difficulties to attain desired strategic objectives."

There are various benefits of IT strategic plan implementation as it enhances the value of the product as well as creating value for the organization". In addition to your statement, having strategic IT plan can improve the processes, enhance customer's experience, and provide modern IT tools that will help the organization in achieving its goals.

Focusing IT efforts towards meeting data-driven business objectives will ensure that the whole business believes in the value of IT in achieving the underlying strategic course of the organization", thank you for stating that in your discussion. In that context, an organization must align the IT strategy with the corporate strategy towards achieving the company's vision and objectives.

However, I would like to highlight that every aspect of the IT strategy should support the business goals of an organisation. Moreover, every IT-related investment, activity, service or project must play a role in creating or optimising business value. Furthermore, IT should work towards achieving business-related metrics, not IT, in order to improve alignment (Orozco Vargas 2011). 

I would like to add in addition to your Arguments section that most important arguments here are optimizing communication between executives who make the business decisions and IT managers who oversee the technical operations. Also, the implementation of flexible business plans and IT architectures, as well as effective cost allocation, are critical components of any business-IT alignment effort (Sage, 2006). 
 
References:

Sage, T. A. (2006). A model of factors affecting business and information technology alignment enabled by enterprise architecture: A structural equation modeling analysis (Order No. 3226205). Available from ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global. (304909356). Retrieved from https://search-proquest-com.sdl.idm.oclc.org/docview/304909356?accountid=142908

Orozco Vargas, J. (2011). A framework of practices influencing is/business alignment and it governance (Order No. 10046920). Available from ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global. (1779020916). Retrieved from https://search.com