THE NEW ROLE FOR EXECUTIVE INFORMATION-SYSTEMS

Five years ago, the term "executive information systems" was an apt one for systems that presented corporate and external information in graphical form, allowed "drilling down" for more detailed data, and enabled the user to easily manipulate the information on-screen. Originally conceived to offer senior management a window into the business, increasingly they are being used as strategic weapons throughout -- and outside -- the organization. One new role for "EIS"s is to help managers improve customer service. This month we look at how two organizations are doing just that, then provide some guidance for implementing an "executive" information system (An Executive Summary is on page 16).