Information technology governance practices and stakeholder management: A multinational organisational perspective

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to explore the relationship of information technology (IT) governance practices and stakeholder management within global IT projects. Having IT governance in place is one thing, but practicability in the project is another challenge for project managers. While the practice of governance is still a challenge to implement, stakeholder management within the context of IT governance adds complexity to managing local and foreign stakeholders that span country borders. This article provides an understanding of how IT governance and stakeholder management are inseparable when implementing global IT projects. Interviews were used to determine the industry best practices for multinational organisations and project practitioners’ experience in the implementation of global IT projects. The results highlight the link between stakeholder management and specific IT governance practices for proactively implementing global IT projects. A relationship management approach for project managers and other key project players to link both IT governance and stakeholder engagement is required. From a practical standpoint, the study explored the practitioners’ experience and practices of IT governance implementation in line with stakeholder management in various global IT projects.