Aligning Information Systems with the Organization: A Measurement Tool and its Application

Abstract

Achieving alignment between the goals of the information systems (IS) functionand the organization as a whole remains a top priority. A perceptual instrumentis described that measures this alignment. It allows organizations to monitor theirIS function over time and to compare their situation with others. Largescalesurveys of different industry sectors and more extensive studies of individualcompanies enable conclusions to be drawn about the extent and relevance ofalignment in the views of users and IS staff. Of particular significance is theperceived alignment between the rated importance and performance of differentaspects of IS.A large manufacturing company has used the instrument to evaluate theeffectiveness of its IS function. Interpretation of the results revealed certainshortcomings and plans were made to rectify them. IS management took tangibleaction and a subsequent survey of both the user community and IS staff showedmeasurable changes in perceptions.