processes necessary to realize the objective, and the information needed to manage these processes, a plan for the development of the EIS was created. The ms would be rolled out in modules with the sequencing of their introduction determined by their criticality to achieving the firm's strategic objective. This approach allowed the most important modules to be implemented quickly. Each module was a size that could be easily handled by the EIS staff. New modules were able to draw upon the modules that were ahready in place. Project management techniques were used to plan the modules and to control their development.
Figure 1 shows the modules and the order in which they were developed. Eis development began in 1986 and the last module was completed as scheduled in early 1989. The ms continues to evolve today. Fisher-Price's EIS provides online access to timely information that is used for planning, analyzing, and monitoring activities associated with the business. All screens and reports in the system originate fiom a common database and most have standard formats. The database is updated each night, which provides for current business infonnation each day. The system is modularized with information logically grouped by topics or "win- dows." Within each individual window of information is a set of standard screens and reports that can be accessed. Windows are easily found and accessed through the main menu. The EIS is totally menu driven with an online HELP feature that makes it extremely easy to leam and use. Users can obtain instructions, data definitions, and report samples using the HELP feature.