Tomorrow is Another Day: Information Systems Governance

In English In many organizations, the Chief Information Officer is considered to preside over a separate
function, providing a service to the business. Discussions about governance are confined to properties
of this service, e.g. through a service level agreement. Members of the CIO’s staff are often seen as
technical experts possessing esoteric skills desired but not understood by other staff. Many
researchers have observed a need for businesses to avoid such fragmentation to reap the full benefits
of investment in ICT’s. However, this research is itself often fragmented – focusing sometimes on
software, sometimes on architectures. This paper argues that IS governance should form an integral
part of strategic business management. We advocate a shift of perspective in management of IS, from
leadership to facilitation. People at all levels require empowerment and support to develop their own
IS ‘capability’; to make the best use of available technologies and information in context. There is
evidence to show that input from a wider community within organizations can lead to an improved
realization of value from information technology. The paper will discuss methods which can provide
appropriate support for individuals to achieve this.