I am a Professor of Information Systems at Tarleton State University, where I teach graduate and undergraduate courses in telecommunications, networking, information systems security, and IT service management.
I grew up in a family-owned business in Denton, Texas, which gave me hands-on experience with technology and problem-solving. Over the years, I transitioned from business operations into computer service and information systems. Today, I bring that mix of business and technical expertise into my teaching and research, with a strong emphasis on applying information systems concepts to real-world organizational challenges.
My research focuses on information systems security effectiveness, IT governance, and digital service management frameworks (e.g., ITIL 4). I am particularly interested in how organizations—large and small—design secure, resilient IT environments while maintaining agility and business value.
Education
- Ph.D., Business Administration (Information Systems), University of North Texas
- M.S., Information Technology, University of North Texas
- M.B.A., Business Computer Information Systems, University of North Texas
- B.B.A., Strategic Management, University of North Texas
Teaching
At Tarleton, I primarily teach in the online graduate program. My courses are designed to prepare students for leadership in IT and business strategy, emphasizing applied frameworks like ITIL 4, governance models, and digital transformation practices.
Courses Taught:
- BCIS 5304: Telecommunications for Managers – Explores ITIL 4, service management, and networking technologies in business contexts.
- BCIS 5381: Strategic Information Systems – Examines how organizations leverage IT for competitive advantage, innovation, and business alignment.
- BCIS 5379: Technology of E-Business
- BCIS 5317: IT Leadership (Topics in Information Systems)
- BCIS 5351: IT Project Management
- Undergraduate courses in Networking, Data Communications, and Security
Teaching Philosophy:
I believe in bridging theory with practice. Students should leave my courses not only understanding concepts but also being able to apply ITIL frameworks, analyze IT workflows, and design solutions that create measurable value for organizations. I integrate case studies, simulations, and service improvement projects to prepare students for both certification exams and professional advancement.
Research
My research agenda centers on information systems security and IT service management. I investigate how organizations can develop secure, resilient infrastructures while maintaining agility and business value.
Selected Publications:
- Zhang, G., Schuessler, J. H., & Shao, C. Y. (2025). Small-World Phenomenon of Global Open-Source Software Collaboration on Github: A Social Network Analysis. Journal of Global Information Management (JGIM), 33(1), 1-24. https://doi.org/10.4018/JGIM.387412
- Ramakrishnan, T., Hite, D., Schuessler, J., & Prybutok, V. (2022). Work Ethic and Personal Security Posture. Information and Computer Security.
- Schuessler, J. (2009). General Deterrence Theory: Assessing Information Systems Security Effectiveness in Large vs. Small Businesses.
- Schuessler, J., Nagy, Fulk, Dearing (2017). Data Breach Laws: Do They Work?
- Norcross, J., Schuessler, J., & Jones, D. (2020). Web Scraping to Inform Curriculum Decisions. Journal of Higher Education Theory and Practice.
Research Interests:
- Information systems security effectiveness
- ITIL 4 and service management practices
- Data breaches and organizational response
- IT governance, risk, and compliance
- Emerging technologies in IS
Service & Leadership
- Senior faculty leadership within the graduate Information Systems program
- Program contributor to curriculum design and accreditation initiatives
- Reviewer and contributor to conferences and journals in information systems and IT service management
- Faculty mentor for graduate students pursuing thesis and applied research projects
Beyond the Classroom
I believe learning should be engaging, memorable, and sometimes even fun. Alongside serious research and teaching, I share technology-related humor, thought-provoking media, and discussions on the broader cultural impacts of IT.
Outside of academia, I enjoy exploring new technologies, engaging with professional networks, and mentoring students and colleagues in their career paths.