Successful management of information technology: a strategic alignment perspective

Abstract

Although the information systems (IS) literature often suggests that there is a need to align IS strategy with business strategy, the benefits of IS strategic alignment are difficult to determine. This paper describes a configurational model of IS strategic alignment that evaluates not only the internal consistency between IS strategy and business strategy but also contingency approaches to managing different types of IS strategic alignment. The four alignment types are termed business strategy-led, conservative, organization-led and technology-led. Quantitative assessments on survey data indicate the similarities and differences of IS success factors which can be used to diagnose the strength and limitations of IS success among the four alignment types. Qualitative analyses from the multiple case study evaluations have identified good practices and pitfalls in IS management. Hence, this paper contributes to both theory and practice by extending the body of knowledge in relation to strategic alignment of IS and providing guidelines to managers to manage IS more successfully.