An information systems ownership framework

Abstract

Organisations deploy information systems (IS) with the exclusive intention to pursue their business objectives. Executive managers assign ownership of IS to business leaders, expecting them to leverage the IS towards achieving the objectives of the business areas. Many business leaders are reluctant to take ownership of the IS in their business areas, placing the organisation at risk that IS may not be optimally utilised and business areas not attaining their objectives. Little guidance exists to understand what 'taking ownership of IS' entails. In the research, a framework for understanding IS ownership was developed through a process of induction. The IS ownership framework discusses the different perspectives of the role-players with respect to defining IS ownership, the rationale for IS ownership, the criteria for having ownership and the rights, obligations and expectations associated with IS ownership.