What is the greatest concern for an IS auditor if several IT-based projects were implemented without steering committee approval?

The greatest concern for an IS auditor regarding IT-based projects implemented without steering committee approval is that the IT department may not be working toward a common goal. Without the oversight and alignment provided by a steering committee, projects can diverge significantly in terms of objectives, priorities, and resource allocation. This can lead to inefficient use of resources, project duplication, or even conflicts between different project teams, all of which undermine the overall strategic alignment of IT initiatives with the organization's goals.

In the absence of a steering committee's guidance, it becomes challenging to ensure that all projects are aligned with the organization's strategic objectives, which can jeopardize not only the success of individual projects but also the integrity of the IT portfolio as a whole. A steering committee usually provides the necessary governance framework, ensuring that all IT efforts are cohesive and mutually supportive, contributing to better outcomes and return on investment.

While the other choices touch on concerns related to funding, adherence to development processes, and formal approval mechanisms, the overarching issue relates to the alignment and coherence of IT efforts. It's this lack of strategic alignment and shared direction that poses the greatest risk from a governance and effectiveness standpoint.