Why might it be inappropriate to have a vendor at every IT steering committee meeting?

Having a vendor present at every IT steering committee meeting could be deemed inappropriate primarily because the focus of these meetings typically revolves around internal decision-making processes, priorities, and strategic directions specific to the organization. Steering committees are primarily tasked with aligning IT initiatives with business goals, evaluating project statuses, and making decisions that serve the best interests of the organization.

Involving a vendor at every meeting could shift the focus away from internal objectives and create an environment where external influences dominate discussions. This situation can potentially distract from the important agenda items that require the committee's attention solely within the context of the organization's needs and strategies. While vendors can play a crucial role in providing insights or updates on their products and services, they do not have a stake in the internal strategic decisions and can inadvertently steer conversations toward their interests rather than those of the organization.

Furthermore, the presence of vendors in every meeting could lead to a breakdown in open and candid discussions about challenges or issues the organization faces, as members may feel less comfortable speaking freely in front of external representatives. In this sense, maintaining the integrity and focus of internal discussions is crucial to effective governance and decision-making within an IT steering committee.