Developing a model to evaluate the information technology competence of boards of directors

Abstract

IT governance is critical in the current business environment. Boards of directors are ultimately responsible for ensuring the entities they control have appropriate IT facilities. This study develops a model of IT competences boards should have, to achieve appropriate IT governance. The model is then pilot tested, using Ireland as a case study, to evaluate two issues. Firstly, whether these are the appropriate competences current boards need and second, whether boards appear to have those competences. A survey was completed by Chief Information Officers (CIOs) of Irish listed companies. Results indicate the model is an appropriate method with which to evaluate board IT competence, and companies in Ireland appear to be at a satisfactory competence level. The significance of the research is that the model can now be used to evaluate board IT competence in other jurisdictions. Furthermore comparisons of managements’ evaluations and boards’ evaluations can be assessed