USE OF

INFORMATION
SYSTEM IN
ACCENTURE
GROUP 5

ANKIT YADAV(305)
KULDEEP KALE(315)
PRASANTH (325)
RUPALI CHUGH(335)
UJJWAL GUPTA(355)
INTRODUCTION:
Accenture is a multinational consulting services company that has its headquarters at Dublin,
Ireland. Accenture is one of the Fortune 500 companies and is also the worlds largest consulting
company as measured by revenues. Accenture has its highest number of employees of more than
80,000 in India and services its clients all over the world. Accenture is a New York Stock
Exchange listed company under the symbol of ACN. Accenture was also named as the worlds
most admired IT Services Company.
Over the last few years, Accenture has grown widely and now operates in the fields of Strategy,
Consulting, Technology, Operations etc. Accenture has achieved a huge growth in the last few
years by incorporating Information systems in all its verticals and practices which has been
discussed in the following report.

CASE FACTS:
Information systems have played a vital role in the growth of Accenture over the years. IS has
helped achieve stronger businesses for Accenture using the low cost penetration strategy. As we
have learnt that the IS should be in line with the strategy of the company, Accenture has rightly
implemented IS in its processes in such a way that IS helps in the cost-cutting in its various
processes, which in turn helps the company to provide higher value to its customers at a lower
price thus providing a high customer value proposition. Even in the niche segments like
providing training to its employees, or for arranging travel facilities for its employees, IS has
played an important role making it easier and efficient for both the employees and the company.
The 6 major fields where Accenture has incorporated information systems to improve its
business processes are,
1. Communications
2. Value Measurements
3. Partnership benefits
4. Company Architecture
5. Training/Skill Development
6. Internal Governance like travel etc..
BUSINESS PROCESSES AND IS DEVELOPMENT

Initial situation at Accenture:

Initially, there was no unified portal at Accenture and employees day used to begin
with inboxes filled and overflowing with announcements and newsletters arriving
from the corporate mailer. In order to communicate with employees, different
business units of Accenture used to flood recipients with multiple mails so as to
mark it as important.
Vision:
Accentures vision was to create an integrated system for that information and
knowledge can be shared. This integrated system also helped in sharing content,
workforce management, and performance management in a single virtual desktop.
Accenture created a portal called Accenture Portal which includes link to all other
portals.
Solution:
Accenture Recognized the changing need and came up with the Accenture
professional a personal portal called Accenture Portal. This portal is equipped
to change as the users needs evolve.
Knowledge Management System:
A knowledge management system includes data- driven objectives,
business intelligence models and is used for applying and using
knowledge management principles.
Knowledge exchange collaboration portal: Knowledge exchange portals to
bring people together in one platform for knowledge exchange. They provide an
integrated access to all relevant information in one database and location. They are
used for sharing information and help in streamlining content management with a
consistent user interface.
My Learning portal: This is Accentures single global learning portal. MyLearning
portal helps in directing people and consists of over 20,000 online courses. Apart
from this, it includes virtual classroom courses, and other learning resources to
meet almost any business need. It covers wide number of courses ranging from
soft skill like meeting facilitation and peer management to hard skill courses like
specific software training, SAP training or budget planning.
HR:
HR portal of Accenture has also been upgraded so as to equip employees to meet
their HR needs via a self-service model. There is also myrequest portal where
employees can raise any queries and concern and their requests and issues are
resolved within 24 hours.
Atlas tool : This is an HR tool where an employee can view the project he is locked
in and team and location of the project. All HR related and exit formalities are
specified in this tool.
MyPerformance: A tool where employee can fill their objective and receive the
ratings from the supervisors
Allsec Smartpay services: This is a tool used for payroll claims processing,
employee benefit administration and financial services
Myte: This portal is a personalized portal where each individual can fill their
timesheet. They can charge for the shifts and overtime they did. They can fill their
medical and travel reimbursement.

Employee Referral: Accenture employee referral job campaign has been branded
as Talent Scout. Accenture encourages employee to refer their known through
employee referral jobs. At first, an employee refers a person. Then the person has to
follow the procedure and appear for the walk-.
Accenture ACTIVE: This tool is used for performing various tasks such as Proposal
Writing, Marketing, Risk management.

Transport management system:

This tool has integrated various functions such as rostering, Routing, Billing,
Reporting, Tracking, etc. in one application.

Accentures Ticketing-as-a-Service offers a large catalog of self-service functions. It

is linked via the web and mobile applications from enrollment to product purchase,
automatic reload to card management services.

Employees can raise redressal against the transport system through this portal. Also
they can call the transport number in case of emergency.
ENABLING TECHNOLOGIES FOR DIGITIZATION

1. Internal Audit

Internal Audit is increasing the amount of audits & services to continue to provide value and,
simultaneously, increasing risk coverage. Recognizing this roadblock, Internal Audit is
leveraging latest technology, not simply to improve same capabilities, but also to enable it to
provide new ones.

Digitization journey involves implementing a no. of solutions. The organization collaborates

with internal IT brain trust to look at internal audit business processes, examine what can be
automated and determine what technology would best support that business process or processes.

Key areas for enhancement with new technologies:

Enhancing audit management with a new Global Risk and Compliance (GRC) solution

Existing GRC solution was falling short in its capabilities to meet the needs of both the growth
of Accentures business and Internal Audits expanding global organization. Internal Audit found
a new solution, which it implemented in partnership with Accentures internal IT organization.
The GRC solution provides with a end-to-end audit life cycle management solution that mirrors
Accentures internal corporate functions and operating model. It is used for general project and
audit management, scheduling, tracking, reporting, document repository for audit support and
evidence, and provides audit review and sign-off functionality.

Leveraging analytics to industrialize continuous audit

Internal Audit has been using analytics in its audit processes to monitor key processes, controls
and transactions instead of using traditional sample testing of transactions and periodic review.

The initial focus used analytics to create a no. of new internal audit capabilities, including
automating monitoring that identifies risks on an ongoing basis for effective controls; increasing
audit coverage and assurance, promoted by auditing a full data; and enhanced risk identification
by analysing data patterns across multiple transaction systems.

Implementing continuous risk assessment with Microsoft Dynamics CRM

Risk assessment is a key area for digitization. As Accentures business has continued to rapidly
evolve and grow, Internal Audit found it needed to stay closer to the business and speak with
Accenture leaders more frequently. Dynamics CRM is a good fit for Accenture because it is
cloud-based, as-a-service, and offered a plug-in directly into Outlook, used by Accenture,
enabling easy access to the Accenture address book and employee schedules. The software gives
employees the ability to document their notes in a single repository while having access to other
notes from other calls.

Increasing productivity leveraging Accenture social and collaboration tools

Accenture makes extensive use of technology to support collaboration & communication of

Accenture people and their knowledge with teamswhether in the same room or thousands of
miles awayto come up with the best solutions for clients. These technologies include
Microsoft Lync, Telepresence, videoconferencing, Microsoft SharePoint, the Stream, Yammer
and Circles .

2. Sales Process
The ability to efficiently execute sales activities to support companys growth aspirations is a
crucial to Accenture. The existing environment has both on- and offline tools but an end-to-end
toolset was lacking. Also, one of the primary tools, Accentures opportunity management
solution, was nearing its end of life. The business needed a platform to manage salesfrom
client contact to signed contractto enable client account teams to be effective. These teams
needed a solution that provided the rigor and insights to help them move from sales
administration to sales enablement.
Global Sales and Pricing organization developed the overall vision for a new solution and
collaborated with companys internal IT organization to support the change required to make it
happen. Together, the business and IT defined the business case and actualized it by a joint
business architecture team and an internal IT development and deployment team. Both internal
IT & the Global Sales and Pricing organization set out to digitize how Accenture sells by
digitally enabling the E2E sales process and improving efficiency using automation. The solution
was designed to fit in ITs overall Client Team Centricity strategyan integrated, digital and
insightful set of business services to enable Accenture client account teams. Collaborating with
Accentures Global Sales and Pricing organization, internal IT outlined a 3-year vision and road
map for the new solution. For the first phase, the team developed Manage mySales, a CRM
solution providing the capabilities of account, contact and activity management, leveraging
standard capabilities of Salesforce.com with custom enhancements made based on account team
feedback. An equally important aspect of this foundational work was re-architecting the
opportunity management solution. Underpinning all activities were three guiding principles: 1)
Focussing on what matters most to client account teams, 2) Enabling one-stop shop for sales
and 3) Using best-in-class capabilities. Implementation of the base Manage mySales solution
involved integrating sales data across numerous applications to streamline, simplify and integrate
the sales management processes. A new cloud-based infrastructure was leveraged, enabling the
solution to be managed entirely in cloud and ready to be used anywhere and anytime on mobile
devices. Manage mySales was deployed globally over 5 months in 3 waves to 5 operating groups
across all of Accentures businesses. Deployment spanned all geographies, benefiting small and
large client teams alike. Companys social media tools were leveraged along with in-application
social media to provide learning tips. Additionally, live learning boards were used that grouped
training by audience group to offer specialized learning. During the base solution deployment
there were no significant business operations or management issues as the team stayed focused
on five key areas, which included strong leadership governance, strategic business and IT
partnership, strong partnership with the cloud provider, continuous innovation for rapid releases,
and dedicated engagement model for client account teams. After the first wave, lessons earned
were incorporated into other waves. The other 2 phases of Manage mySales will continue to
evolve the technology and processes. Phase 2 will focus on improving operations efficiency
through automation and integration of additional sales capabilities to further enhance the user
experience, enable campaigns and enable core analytics. The focus of Phase 3 will be on
enabling portfolio optimization with analytics and insights, which will involve implementing
predictive analytics and pricing intelligence and integrating Manage mySales with other
Accenture applications.

3. Achieving Operational Excellence

Accentures IT team, under their CIO, recognized the need to go for a single technology platform
that was global, scalable and secure. The IT infrastructure had to be such that it would be
accessible from any place and at any time. Another concern was that IT efficiency had to be
improved. Thus there was a need to standardize, rationalize and centralize IT infrastructure.
The first step they undertook to streamline operations and to cut costs was that of email
migration. The companys messaging system and collaboration solutions were totally transferred
to a Microsoft solution. It was one of the worlds largest and fastest email migration conducted,
in which around 1000 email users were transferred each day. At a later stage, to further optimize
communications, the entire email platform was shifted to an external cloud platform.
Perhaps the most important step in their transformation journey was the implementation of ERP
System, based on SAP technology. This helped to reduce technology costs manifold, by reducing
the number of applications needed for Finance and Human Resource Management. Another key
element of this transformation was internal outsourcing. Business application development and
maintenance were sourced from the Accenture Global Delivery Network. All of these changes
further helped Accenture develop innovative products and services and also increase customer
satisfaction, both internally and externally.
4. Customer Relationship Management
CRM is about how an organization maintains its relationship with its clients. With the advent of
technology this process has become automated and thus in the age of internet and networking it
is important that companies put extra efforts in maintaining such relationships as the slightest
lapse on their part may prove to be an advantage for their competitors.
In the era where customer loyalty is erodes very fast Accenture has been very prudent in
implementing SAP technology based customer relationship management. This advanced
technology is used not only to acquire and retain customers but also to increase value for the
customers.
IT based CRM solutions help not only the customers but also makes management on the service
provider side, simple as well. Easy assigning and managing of requests made by the clients,
maintaining unlimited no. of accounts, and easy segregation of customers according to different
criteria be it demographics, region, choices etc. Using such an efficient customer management
system facilitates a smoother conversion of leads into clients, followed by follow up services and
nurturing.
Accenture is now working on implementing cloud based CRM solutions. This new technology
will provide the customers with greater flexibility and help in cost savings that will amount to
about 25%. This will also help integrate different sales channels and enable them to make
repeated use of collected sales information about customers as well as clients. Also it will
empower them to gauge the success of their various marketing initiatives and campaigns through
phone, mail, email, and social media.
Accenture has also developed CRM software on the Microsoft xRM platform. These services are
also available on the cloud and can be thus availed easily as Software as a Service (SaaS). After
developing a cloud based system specific to the needs of the client Accenture makes sure that
extensive testing and fixing of problems and defects is carried out till the customers are satisfied
fully.

INFORMATION SYSTEM STRATEGY AND ETHICAL CONSIDERATION

Elements of Information system @Accenture

It has integrated performance Management system built on SAP HANA platform, it helps to
manage enterprise performance management and business intelligence that supports operation
globally.
They have Lotus notes across the Organization which gives every business to database and
responsibility to manage and update data. Accenture even has its R&D center where they work
on new and emerging technologies which are in-line with upcoming trends such as cognitive
computing and Internet of Things.
Accenture and Apigee have expanded their relationship forming a global alliance to deliver
solutions that help clients build mobile applications more easily and connect enterprise system.
Instead of treating IT as a cost center, they run IT like a business. While the CIO and his team are
responsible for developing the IT strategy, the major decisions with respect to individual IT
projects are taken by an IT Steering Committee that is chaired by the Chief Operating Officer.
Information security @Accenture:-
Data security is a top concern at Accenture, they have standard policies in place and they make
every new joiner aware of standard information security practices. There is separate IT
department at each and every office which looks after maintenance of Database and handling
employee grievances about given system.
The System is completely protected by firewall and access to illicit content has blocked. The
access to some important company data is password protected and only authorized person can
open it. All employees have given separate login details and data security check list to make
sure they adhere to it. All personal systems of Employees can be tracked for any misconduct or
misbehavior with the Information System. They have secure data management policy where they
dispose off unnecessary data on interval basis and store required data for employees.

Analysis of the Effectiveness

It improved their overall performance of the organization both financially and operationally.
They are now able to deliver best class services to global base customers and maintain good
client relationship. The rate of errors had gone down while completing the assignments and
success rate has improved.
Some of the decisions taken at Accenture to improve business practices are as follows
1. Due to increased mobility of employees, they focused on providing IT products and service,
anytime, anywhere, they took the next step to move the entire e-mail platform to an external
cloud platform.
2. They developed a centralized knowledge management repository to replace the legacy
system. The employees can now find content more quickly and deliver information to clients in a
better manner.
3. They implemented Enterprise Resource Planning system based on SAP technology which
led to better integration of the core functions of finance and human resources management.
4. In 2007, they installed new tools like high definition video conferencing, business networking
tools etc. to allow smarter and more efficient work.
5. Better planning and execution of key projects for Project Manager. These Information system
has helped Accenture to embrace B2E, B2C, B2B, and M2M business opportunities.

Every day Accenture employees log on to companys website, which they can access from
anywhere in the world. The system enables them to access their email account, share data and
documents with colleagues. If a employee travel to different any other office location, system is
used to find cubicle and all calls and communication automatically routed through current
location.

Employees have encouraged to inform any malfunction of their system to IT department as soon
as you notice. Their password gets automatically expire after 60 days and personal devices cant
be connected to system without a permission from IT committee. Email account automatically
gets deactivated after 7 days of that individual who left company.
USE OF INFORMATION SYSTEM IN DECISION MAKING AT ACCENTURE-
Accenture helps in shaping the future of its clients combining business insight and understanding
how technology will impact the business models and the industry.What makes them different is
the fact that they are focused on the strategies for business, operations and technology. They have
the human resources with the adequate skills required to go with years of experience to
effectively shape its progress path at the global level. Over the recent years Accenture is growing
at a faster pace with multiple acquisition and expanding itself to different domains and various
countries. What has helped Accenture all through in this is its willingness to change to
digitization and its adaptability to new technologies. Thus Information system plays a key role in
decision making at Accenture, whether it involves within the company decisions or a decision at
the global levels.
Over the period of last three years, Accenture has invested almost $2.5 billion in
acquisitions in order to enhance their capabilities, and they are going to continue using
targeted acquisitions in order to scale rapidly in the key growth areas.
Accenture is also investing aggressively these days to attract talents, develop skills and
retain these specialized skills and keep pace with the clients changing needs. In fiscal
 2015, they invested $841 million in just training and professional development. Also they
hired about 100,000 people, with deep expertise in different fields such as PhDs, web
developers, data scientists, big data specialists and digital marketers
Till now, it was the born-digital companies & technology giants that have taken advantage of
digital disruption by understanding and implementing the power of technology and development
of platforms for the new business models to show case there hidden values. This approach has
meant that they have dominated in all respects whether its profits growth, and more market
capitalizations. Now, there is an open opportunity for the traditional incumbents to be more
aggressive in their approach to pursue the new digital business models. Just by optimizing their
digital investments, leaders and the policy makers can be more productive, competitive and can
bring the required quality of life to its people. Understanding all this and knowing where to make
the investments to get the greatest improvement in gross domestic product is the subject of recent
analysis by Accenture.
Types of decisions:
Structured: routine and repetitive; involve definite procedure to handle so they do not have to
be treated each time as new
Semi structured: Only part of problem has clear-cut answer provided by accepted procedure
Unstructured: Decision maker should provide judgment, evaluation, & insight to solve problem

RECOMMENDATIONS
1. There should be Technology usage agreement for all employees which will include and
specify clauses regarding inappropriate web surfing, personal purpose data downloading
policy and data confidentiality. It will also elaborate on policy regarding prohibition on
visiting website which will affect system performance by virus such as torrent, games,
music etc.
2. They can make a comprehensive technology plan which will address issues regarding
replacement of aging workstations and knowledge regarding emerging technologies. The
rapidly changing nature of industry should be considered to for future plan of business.
3. The growing digital economy should be exploited so the key policy makers and the
business leaders must take actions to improve the economic productivity of the
organisations. Three ways of doing it would be-prioritized the digital investments
depending on the value proposition, should make use of industry specific digital
technology, creation of right environment for the transformation to take place
 4. Online classroom trainings should be streamlined and an integrated platform where
knowledge workers could integrate and share their knowledge to employees should be
implemented.
5. Accenture policies to lock in project should be integrated into one platform. This will
help employees to select projects according to their core competencies.
6. Use of various strategies like porters five forces to analysis the entrance into any industry
as this will help the company to understand the opportunities in different field and the
skills needed to grow in that industry.

REFERENCES:
Employees of Accenture
https://www.accenture.com
https://www.allsechro.com
https://newsroom.accenture.com/industries/chemicals
http://www.vault.com/company-profiles/management-strategy/accenture/company-
overview.aspx
https://www.accenture.com/sk-en/success-accenture-digitizing-internal-audit.aspx

Company Website: https://www.accenture.com/in-en

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Accenture

Accenture Services Pvt. Ltd., Bangalore

Interviews of ex-employees of Accenture
https://www.accenture.com/t20160107T073110__w__/be-en/_acnmedia/Accenture/Conversion-
Assets/DotCom/Documents/Global/PDF/Dualpub_24/Accenture-ManageMySales-Final-v2.pdf