Strategic information systems planning: the IT strategy implementation matrix

The need for improved implementation of information technology (IT) strategy has been emphasised in both empirical and prescriptive research studies. In this study, ten content characteristics of formal information technology strategy are identified from the research literature as potential implementation predictors. These are descriptions of: (i) resources needed for the implementation; (ii) user involvement during the implementation; (iii) analyses of the organization; (iv) anticipated changes in the environment; (v) solutions to potential resistance during the implementation; (vi) information technology to be implemented; (vii) projects' relevance to the business plan; (viii) responsibility for the implementation; (ix) management support for the implementation; and (x) clarity of the documentation. An IT strategy implementation matrix is introduced to illustrate the relationship between the expired time horizon and the IT strategy implementation extent. The matrix can be used by organizations to monitor their IT strategy implementation performance over time. A survey was conducted in Norway whereupon the return of 471 completed questionnaires resulted in a satisfactory response rate of 43%. Formal IT strategy was reported in 40% of these organizations. The two significant predictors in the testing of hypotheses proved to be the description of responsibility for the implementation and the description of user involvement during the implementation.