Corporate and information systems planning-the missing links

A common set of questions expressed in business terms can provide a single driving force to which all activities to implement a company´s IT vision and to integrate business and IT functions can be linked. The questions derive from the interests and concerns of the most senior management. The outcome is a shared IT vision and a common planning and management framework which complements organisation structure and culture and is closely integrated with the way in which other functions of the business are planned and managed. Additionally, matters of policy, e.g. investment authorisation procedures, rules for charging for IS/IT services and adoption of national or industry standards are clarified. Addressing these issues at an early stage greatly simplifies the derivation of IS and IT strategies and greatly improves the probability of successful implementation and business satisfaction in IT investment