A continuing stream of information technology innovations is transforming the traditional business world. The course for professionals offers an up-to-date and comprehensive overview of information systems used by business firms today. It helps professionals see the direct connection between information systems and business performance. It describes the main business objectives driving the use of information systems and technologies in corporations all over the world: operational excellence; new products and services; customer and supplier intimacy; improved decision making; competitive advantage; and survival. In-text examples and case studies show how specific companies use information systems to achieve these objectives.