Information Systems Investment and Value: Lessons from Kenyan Higher Education Institution

Abstract

Investment in Information Systems (IS) and related technologies to enhance operational activities as well as leveraging strategic advantage in organizations has become critical. However, this can only be achieved if there is a properly laid down strategy at the corporate level and well planned deployment and implementation strategies at the project implementation level. This paper discusses findings of a research on strategic alignment practices in Kenyan public universities. The assessment focuses on levels of information systems strategic alignment at the corporate planning level and IS project implementation level. The assessment was done using a framework adapted from Luftman’s Strategic Alignment Maturity Model (SAMM) assessment framework. The research used sequential explanatory mixed method approach starting with a survey study followed by interviews to enhance the findings from the initial quantitative study. A comparison of the corporate level and IS project implementation level show the later has a higher alignment maturity level. Further probe of the quantitative findings through interviews explains the variations in each of the IS projects and between the corporate and IS project levels. The approach guides the organization in determining the factors requiring attention to improve on the overall maturity level of the organization and therefore realize business value of the IS investments.

Keywords: Strategic Alignment, IS Investments, IS-Business Alignment, Information Systems, Strategic Alignment Maturity Model