How can strategic alignment be improved in IT governance?

Improving strategic alignment in IT governance fundamentally revolves around ensuring that IT investments and initiatives effectively support and drive business objectives. Having top management mediate between business and technology imperatives is crucial as it provides a direct connection between organizational strategy and IT capabilities. This mediation by top management can help clarify business goals, align IT priorities accordingly, and ensure that resources are allocated to initiatives that enhance overall business performance.

When top management is involved, they can foster a culture of collaboration where IT and business units are encouraged to work together. This leadership creates a framework for ongoing dialogue about strategic priorities, which is vital in adapting to changing business needs and market dynamics. The involvement of leadership helps in prioritizing IT projects that are most aligned with the strategic vision of the organization, ensuring that IT serves as not just a support function, but as a partner in achieving broader business objectives.

The other options, while they may contribute to aspects of operational efficiency or risk management, do not directly address the overall strategic alignment between IT and business goals. Managing supplier and partner risk pertains more to operational security and supply chain management rather than strategic alignment. Providing a knowledge base on customers and products is beneficial for informed decision-making but does not directly facilitate alignment between IT initiatives and business strategy. Facilitating