1.Does a strong business case exist for developing an information system to support the Caputos’ business? Explain your answer.

A strong business case does exist for an information system to support the Caputos’ business. Currently the Original Kayak Adventures is a small, but successful business with definite potential for growth. If the Caputos’ would learn more about their market and reach a larger area as well as maintain their current customers they could increase their company’s sales. Since Edie has already created the reservation database they have a head-start and it wouldn’t be difficult to add and store personal information on their customers. This would not only help to grow the business but to help the Caputos’ stay organized and maintain their current customer base.

2.In a small- to medium-sized business, such as OKA, is it really important to use a structured approach for information systems development? Why or why not?

SWOT-Strengths (How can we max. them), Weaknesses (How can we overcome them), Opportunities (How can we take full advantage of them), Threats (What can we do about them/about potential threats in the future)

Systems projects: Initiated to improve performance, provide more information, reduce costs, strengthen controls, or provide better service

3.Based on the facts provided, draft a mission statement for OKA. In your statement, consider all the stakeholders who might be affected by OKA operations.

MISSION STATEMENT: (The foundation for the company’s major goals, shorter-term objectives, and day-to-day business operations) (Describes a company for its stakeholders and briefly states the company’s overall purpose, products, services, and values.

OBJECTIVE: Original Kayak Adventures (OKA) offers guided eco-tours and kayak rentals along the Hudson River. 3 main business segments: rentals, instruction, and guided tours.

STAKEHOLDERS: (Anyone affected by the company’s operations, such as customers, employees, suppliers, stockholders, and members of the community)

4.What internal and external factors might affect OKA’s business success?

INTERNAL: Revenue, customer load, company structure(How the employee hierachy is laid out)

EXTERNAL: Weather could be a factor that might affect OKA's business success, especially in the kayak business where waterways are obviously crucial to their success. Flooding, extended rains, lightning, and high winds could all cause trips to be postponed in short term, or long term in the event of severe damage. OKA should have an emergency weather plan in place with rain check/refund options available to customers.