AWWA IMT61452

Addressing information technology (IT) governance poses a dilemma for many utilities. If the utility is ahead of general funddepartments in its use of technology, how does that impact the utility's technology progress? Do alldepartments have an equal voice in determining technology needs and priorities? A proven IT governancemodel is a large part of the solution to the dilemma.IT governance is the system by which an organization's IT portfolio is directed and controlled. Itdescribes the distribution of IT decision-making rights and responsibilities among different stakeholdersin the organization, and describes the rules and procedures for making and monitoring decisions onstrategic IT concerns. Using industry-standard models, utilities can collaboratively develop a sustainable IT governancestructure with common and repeatable processes that address the four primary components making up ITgovernance:IT strategic alignment within the organization;IT value delivery;IT risk management; and,IT performance measurement.Expected outcomes of an IT governance framework will:describe an enterprise perspective for IT governance, with a balance between city or countyInformation Systems Services as well as Utility Department needs, leading to a clear understanding ofhow IT governance relates to these components of the organization;define a framework for delegation of roles, responsibilities, and accountabilities;define existing IT systems, and ITbusiness processes; and,all parties accept and adopt the governance recommendations.In summary, this paper discusses:IT Governance and the need for a plan;benefits of IT Governance Assessed & Classified;and, practice improvement process for IT governance. Includes figures.

Product Details

Edition:

Vol. - No.

Published:

04/01/2005

Number of Pages:

8

File Size:

1 file , 110 KB