IT strategy and decision-making: a comparison of four universities

Universities are increasingly dependent on information technology (IT) to support delivery of their objectives. It is crucial, therefore, that the IT investments made lead to successful outcomes. This study analyses the governance structures and decision-making processes used to approve and prioritise IT projects. Factors influencing an institution's ability to identify and approve the projects that will maximise contributions to overall mission are examined. From this a framework for improved IT governance and decision-making in a university context is proposed.