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The Global Insight

What is the relationship between information systems and competitive advantage?

Author

Mia Phillips

Updated on March 04, 2026

Information systems that allow for the sharing of knowledge across business lines enhances competency and provides the business with a competitive advantage over its rivals. Within any business information management is one of the most important areas of competitive strategy.

Why is a competitive edge necessary?

A competitive advantage distinguishes a company from its competitors. It contributes to higher prices, more customers, and brand loyalty. Establishing such an advantage is one of the most important goals of any company. Without it, companies will find it difficult to survive.

How are Information Systems a competitive business advantage?

One of the ways that information systems have participated in competitive advantage is through integrating the supply chain electronically. This is primarily done through a process called electronic data interchange, or EDI.

How are information systems used in a business?

Information technology can be used here to make these processes more efficient, such as with supply-chain management systems, which allow the suppliers to manage their own inventory. Operations: Any part of a business that is involved in converting the raw materials into the final products or services is part of operations.

How is information technology affecting the business industry?

Information technology is affecting businesses in three main ways. They are; It has modified the structure of the business industry and has thus changed the rules of the game. It gives a means by which a business can outperform its competitors thus giving it competitive advantage.

When did the Internet become a competitive advantage?

We will also use Porter’s analysis in his 2001 article “Strategy and the Internet,” which examines the impact of the Internet on business strategy and competitive advantage, to shed further light on the role of information technology in competitive advantage.