Examining the relationship between ICT governance drivers and effective ICT governance at the University of Rwanda.

Abstract

Investments in information and communication technology (ICT) based systems and processes are essential for business organizations. Yet many organizations have not been able to derive maximum benefit from their substantial spending on ICT. Some organizations have seen their systems end up as technical or organizational failures. This research project aimed at examining the relationship between ICT strategic alignment, ICT performance management, ICT resource management and ICT governance at the University of Rwanda. Therefore, based on actor network theory, we developed a conceptual framework for a holistic approach. In order to examine the relationship, first, a literature review was conducted to explore ICT governance research. Empirical data was collected via a survey questionnaire where the unit of analysis was the college representatives as well as representatives from central administration consisting of top and senior authorities, middle managers as well as academic and ICT staff. A stratified purposive sampling was applied as a non-probability sampling. Data was collected using a sample size of 81 respondents consisting of 2 top authorities, 5 senior authorities, 30 middle managers, 21 Academic Staff and 23 ICT staff. The measurement of variables relied on 5 point Likert-scale. The study used both Pearson’s correlation and multiple regression methods to carry out data analysis, whereas data presentation was in descriptive form. The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between ICT strategic alignment and ICT governance (R2=41.8% and Beta=0.676); a significant positive relationship between ICT performance management and ICT governance (R2=34.0% and Beta=0.617); a significant positive relationship between ICT resource management and ICT governance (R2=47.4% and Beta=0.607) and a high and significant positive relationship between ICT strategic alignment together with ICT performance management and ICT resource management and ICT governance with ICT resource management (Beta=.466, sig<.05) being a better predictor of ICT governance than the ICT strategic alignment and ICT performance management. This research therefore recommends that while putting in place ICT governance structures, the University get the support from top, senior and middle managers but also involve all stakeholders in the development and implementation of ICT governance at the University.