Exploring Information Technology Governance (ITG) in Developing Countries: AN Empirical Study

Abstract

The objective of this study is to explore the current performance of information technology governance (ITG) in Saudi organizations using the balanced scorecard model introduced by the ITG Institute (ITGI, 2005). An empirical survey was carried out to achieve this purpose. Five hundred questionnaires were randomly distributed to a representative sample of Saudi organizations and the response rate was 29.5%. The results of the study reveal that the vast majority of respondents reported the importance of ITG performance measures. A majority of them reported it had been measured, but a smaller number believe that such measures have actually been used in evaluating the ITG performance in their organizations. The results of this study suggest that Saudi organizations should achieve better governance of their IT in order to ensure that an organization�s IT strategy is aligned with and supports the overall organization�s strategy-- that IT supports the organization�s ability to exploit opportunities and maximize benefits. The results also suggest that Saudi organizations should use their IT resources more responsibly and manage their IT-related risks appropriately in order to champion the IT development for the success of their businesses.