COBIT-2019 COBIT 2019 Foundation Questions and Answers

 A primary consideration when addressing new issues within a flexible and open framework is maintaining integrity and consistency. This means that “the framework should be internally consistent; not contain contradictions or ambiguities; be complete in covering all relevant aspects of enterprise governance of I&T; and be coherent in its structure, terminology and presentation” 6. Maintaining integrity and consistency ensures that the framework is reliable, clear, and easy to use for all stakeholders7. References: 6: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, page 25 7: COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information and Technology Governance Solution, page 13

The risk profile of an enterprise is a design factor that describes how an enterprise identifies, assesses, responds to, monitors, and reports on information and technology risks. The risk profile helps to determine the level of risk appetite and tolerance that an enterprise has for its information and technology activities, as well as the level of control and assurance that is required for its governance framework. When reviewing the risk profile of an enterprise during the governance design phase, one of the prerequisites that must be established prior to conducting a high-level risk analysis is the enterprise’s risk appetite. The risk appetite is the amount and type of risk that an enterprise is willing to accept in pursuit of its objectives. The risk appetite provides a basis for defining the risk criteria, thresholds, indicators, and responses that will be used in the risk analysis process. The risk appetite also helps to align the governance framework with the enterprise’s strategy and objectives.References: : COBIT 2019 Design Guide, page 41-43 : COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, page 28-29

 The alignment goal “Delivery of I&T services in line with business requirements” is organized into the customer dimension of the IT balanced scorecard (BSC). The IT BSC is a strategic performance management tool that helps enterprises to translate their IT vision and strategy into operational objectives and measures. The IT BSC consists of four dimensions: customer, financial, internal, and learning and growth. The customer dimension focuses on how well IT meets the needs and expectations of its customers and stakeholders. Delivery of I&T services in line with business requirements is one of the 17 generic alignment goals defined by COBIT that supports the customer dimension.12 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance System

The process practices are the descriptions of the activities that are performed within a process to achieve its purpose and outcomes. The process practices are organized into three levels: basic, intermediate, and advanced. The process practices also include inputs, outputs, roles, responsibilities, goals, and metrics for each activity. The process practices are aligned with the capability levels that can be used as benchmarks to measure and improve the performance of a process. The capability levels are a measure of how well an enterprise performs its information and technology governance and management processes in terms of process attributes such as process performance, process definition, process deployment, process measurement, process control, process optimization etc. The capability levels range from 0 (incomplete) to 5 (optimizing), indicating the degree of maturity and effectiveness of an enterprise’s information and technology governance and management processes. By using the process practices as benchmarks, an enterprise can assess its current capability level for each process, identify the gaps or issues that need to be addressed, set the target capability level for each process based on its strategy, objectives, needs, expectations, etc., and implement the actions and initiatives that are required to enhance the capability level for each process12 References: 1: COBIT 2019 Process Reference Guide: Governance and Management Objectives: page 13-15 2: COBIT 2019 Process Assessment Model: page 11-13

 The primary reason for management to conduct a process capability assessment is to better understand the current state as compared to the target state. A process capability assessment is a method of measuring and evaluating how well a process or activity is performed in terms of effectiveness, efficiency, completeness, reliability, etc. A process capability assessment can be done using different models or frameworks, such as CMMI or ISO/IEC 15504. A process capability assessment helps management to better understand the current state of a process by identifying its strengths, weaknesses, gaps, and improvement opportunities. A process capability assessment also helps management to compare the current state with the target state, which is the desired level of performance or outcome for a process.13 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT Process Assessment Model (PAM): Using COBIT 5

The business case and program plan are essential documents that describe the rationale, objectives, scope, approach, benefits, costs, risks, and timeline of the EGIT implementation program. The business case and program plan provide the basis for obtaining approval, funding, resources, and support for the program from the stakeholders. Therefore, it is important that these documents are realistic and achievable, reflecting the current state and target state of information and technology governance in the enterprise. One of the roles that ensures the business case and program plan are realistic and achievable is the chief information officer (CIO), who is the senior executive responsible for leading and managing the information and technology function in the enterprise. The CIO has a role in developing, reviewing, validating, and approving the business case and program plan, ensuring that they are aligned with the enterprise’s strategy, objectives, needs, and expectations. The CIO also has a role in communicating and presenting the business case and program plan to other stakeholders such as the board, executives, business managers, IT managers, etc., and obtaining their buy-in and commitment for the program34 References: 3: COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide, page 39-40 4: COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives, page 20-21

When assessing organizational structures, it is most helpful when subcriteria for each criterion are defined and linked to capability levels. Organizational structures are the arrangements of roles and responsibilities that enable the enterprise to achieve its objectives. Organizational structures can be assessed using six criteria: clarity, comprehensiveness, integration, alignment, authority, and accountability. Each criterion can be further divided into subcriteria that describe the specific aspects or attributes of the criterion. Capability levels are the measures of how well a process or activity is performed in terms of effectiveness, efficiency, completeness, reliability, etc. Capability levels can range from 0 (incomplete) to 5 (optimizing). Defining and linking subcriteria to capability levels helps to evaluate the current and desired state of organizational structures, as well as to identify gaps and improvement opportunities.123 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information and Technology Governance Solution, COBIT 2019 Framework: Roles, Responsibilities & RACI Charts

 Business service continuity and availability is one of the 17 enterprise goals defined in COBIT 2019, which describe the outcomes that an enterprise wants to achieve from its use of information and technology. This goal relates to ensuring that critical business processes and information are available at a level acceptable to the enterprise in the event of a disruption or disaster, and that recovery plans are in place to restore normal operations as soon as possible. The goal is based on the COBIT 2019 Framework3, page 36. References: 3: COBIT 2019 Framework | Digital | English

 The transition from traditional waterfall to a more agile approach would impact the implementation method step in the design phase the most. The implementation method is the approach or strategy that is used to put the IT governance system into practice. The design phase is the stage in the IT governance life cycle that involves customizing and tailoring the IT governance system to the specific needs and context of the enterprise. The transition from traditional waterfall to a more agile approach would affect the implementation method step in the design phase because it would require a different way of planning, executing, monitoring, and controlling the IT governance system, as well as a different set of skills, tools, techniques, and practices.12 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information and Technology Governance Solution

The function of a mapping table when determining the initial scope of a new governance system is to indicate the relevance of a governance or management objective with a particular design factor. A mapping table is a tool that helps to identify and prioritize the governance and management objectives that are most applicable and important for the enterprise, based on its specific characteristics and context. A design factor is one of the characteristics of the enterprise that influence the design and operation of a governance system, such as size, industry, culture, strategy, etc. A mapping table shows the degree of relevance of each governance and management objective with each design factor, using a scale from 0 (not relevant) to 5 (very relevant). The function is based on the COBIT 2019 Design Guide, page 23. References: : COBIT 2019 Design Guide | Digital | English

The primary objective of implementing the process of managed innovation is to improve customer experience by identifying and realizing new opportunities for business value creation from information and technology. This process involves scanning the external environment for emerging trends and technologies, engaging with stakeholders to understand their needs and expectations, evaluating and prioritizing innovative ideas, and executing and monitoring innovation initiatives. The process is based on the COBIT 2019 Design Guide1, page 75. References: 1: COBIT 2019 Design Guide | Digital | English

The Skills Framework for the Information Age (SFIA) has been used as a basis for developing guidance for the COBIT governance component of people, skills and competencies. SFIA is a globally recognized framework that describes the skills required by professionals who work with information and technology2, p. 36. References: 2: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology

 A due diligence review is a process that involves conducting a comprehensive analysis and assessment of an enterprise’s information and technology assets, capabilities, risks, issues, opportunities, etc., before making a significant decision or transaction. A due diligence review helps to ensure that an enterprise has a clear understanding of the current state and potential impacts of its information and technology activities on its strategy, objectives, performance, value, etc., as well as on its compliance with relevant laws, regulations, standards, guidelines, contracts, or agreements. It is critical to perform a due diligence review following a merger, acquisition, or divestiture event. A merger is an event that involves combining two or more enterprises into one entity. An acquisition is an event that involves one enterprise purchasing another enterprise or its assets. A divestiture is an event that involves one enterprise selling or transferring part of its business or assets to another enterprise. By performing a due diligence review following a merger acquisition or divestiture event an enterprise can ensure that it has identified and addressed any information and technology related risks issues gaps etc., that may arise from the integration or separation of information and technology assets capabilities processes systems structures culture etc., that it has aligned its information and technology governance and management with its new strategy objectives needs expectations etc., that it has optimized its information and technology performance and value delivery etc34 References: 3: COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives: page 20-21 4: COBIT 2019 Design Guide: page 47-48

According to the COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, one of the imperative factors to the successful implementation of IT governance is that IT governance is sponsored by executives. Executive sponsorship ensures that IT governance has sufficient authority, resources and support from the top management of the organization. Executive sponsorship also demonstrates commitment and leadership for IT governance, and fosters a culture of accountability and collaboration among stakeholders.3, p. 33-34 References: 3: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology

The high-level risk analysis is a process that involves identifying, assessing, and prioritizing the information and technology risks that an enterprise faces in relation to its governance system design. The high-level risk analysis helps to determine the level of risk appetite and tolerance that an enterprise has for its information and technology activities, as well as the level of control and assurance that is required for its governance framework. The primary benefit of conducting a high-level risk analysis during governance design is to prioritize governance and management objectives. The governance and management objectives are the statements of what an enterprise wants to achieve in terms of its information and technology governance. The governance and management objectives are derived from the enterprise goals, which are the high-level statements of what an enterprise wants to achieve in terms of its mission, vision, values, and strategy. By conducting a high-level risk analysis, an enterprise can identify the areas of risk that have the most impact on its enterprise goals, and therefore prioritize the governance and management objectives that address those risks. This will also help to align the governance framework with the enterprise’s strategy and objectives12 References: 1: COBIT 2019 Design Guide: page 41-43 2: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology: page 25-26

The information flow and items component of COBIT includes a list of artifacts with links to relevant governance and management practices. An artifact is a tangible or intangible object that is produced, modified, or used by a process or activity. An artifact can be a document, a report, a record, a plan, a policy, a procedure, a service, a product, etc. The information flow and items component of COBIT provides a comprehensive list of artifacts that are relevant for each governance and management objective, as well as links to the practices that produce, modify, or use them.12 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance System

A focus area describes a specific governance topic, domain or issue that can be addressed by a collection of governance and management objectives and their components. A focus area provides guidance on how to apply COBIT to a specific business driver or pain point, such as digital transformation, cybersecurity, privacy, or business continuity. A focus area can also provide guidance on how to align COBIT with other standards, frameworks or regulations. A focus area is based on the COBIT 2019 Design Guide3, page 19. References: 3: COBIT 2019 Design Guide | Digital | English

The best starting point when translating enterprise goals into actionable governance and management objectives is prioritized enterprise goals. The enterprise goals are the high-level statements of what an enterprise wants to achieve in terms of its mission, vision, values, strategy, etc. The enterprise goals are aligned with the stakeholder needs that reflect the expectations and requirements of various internal and external parties that have an interest or stake in the enterprise’s information and technology activities. The prioritized enterprise goals are the subset of enterprise goals that have been ranked according to their importance or urgency for the enterprise based on its context and needs. By starting with prioritized enterprise goals when translating them into actionable governance and management objectives, an enterprise can ensure that it focuses on the most critical aspects of its information and technology governance that support its strategy and objectives. This will also help to align its information and technology activities with its stakeholder needs34 References: 3: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology: page 25-26 4: COBIT 2019 Design Guide: page 35-36

The primary role of business leadership when defining the future state in a business case is to assess proposed solutions against goals. The business case is a document that defines the objectives, benefits, costs, risks, and success factors of IT governance implementation, and proposes one or more solutions that can deliver the desired outcomes. Business leadership is responsible for evaluating the feasibility, viability, and desirability of each solution, as well as ensuring alignment with the enterprise’s strategic direction and stakeholder expectations. The role is based on the COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide4, page 31. References: 4: COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide | Digital | English

 A principle of a proper governance framework is that it should be based on a conceptual model. A conceptual model is “a representation of a system that uses concepts and ideas to form said representation” 8. A conceptual model helps to define the scope, purpose, structure, and content of a governance framework. It also helps to communicate the key concepts and relationships of a governance system to stakeholders. COBIT is based on a conceptual model that consists of three main components: the governance system, the governance components, and the design factors9. References: 8: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conceptual_model  9: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, page 26

The industry sector is a design factor that describes the type of business or economic activity that an enterprise engages in. The industry sector influences the governance and management of information and technology in terms of the specific standards, guidelines, regulations, best practices, challenges, opportunities, etc., that are applicable or relevant for that sector. The industry sector that can be characterized by a low level of regulation and a high level of focus on cost is nonprofit enterprises. Nonprofit enterprises are organizations that operate for a social or environmental purpose rather than for profit. Nonprofit enterprises typically have a low level of regulation compared to other sectors such as financial, health care, public, etc., which have more stringent and complex compliance requirements regarding their information and technology activities. Nonprofit enterprises also have a high level of focus on cost, as they have limited resources and funding, and they need to optimize their spending and demonstrate their accountability and transparency to their donors, beneficiaries, partners, etc. Therefore, nonprofit enterprises need to ensure that their information and technology governance system is efficient, effective, and value-driven.References: : COBIT 2019 Design Guide: page 45-46 : COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology: page 33-34

 The Align, Plan and Organize (APO) domain incorporates managed risk as one of its management objectives. The APO domain covers the activities related to aligning IT strategy with business strategy, planning IT resources and capabilities, organizing IT governance structures and processes, managing IT performance, innovation, risk, quality, human resources, security, information, services, etc. The APO domain consists of 13 management objectives that describe the desired outcomes of these activities.14 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives

The primary purpose of reexamining the IT strategic plan after IT governance has been operating for three years and is satisfactorily achieving desired outcomes is to assess improvement opportunities. The IT strategic plan is a document that defines the vision, mission, goals, objectives, strategies, and tactics for IT governance and management, as well as the alignment with the enterprise’s business strategy. By reexamining the plan periodically, the enterprise can identify any changes in the internal or external environment that may affect IT governance, as well as any areas for enhancement or optimization. The purpose is based on the COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide3, page 26. References: 3: COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide | Digital | English

The people, skills and competencies component of governance identifies the human resource needs that must be met to achieve governance and management objectives. People are the individuals or groups who perform or are accountable for the governance activities and tasks. Skills and competencies are the abilities and knowledge that people need to perform their roles and responsibilities. The people, skills and competencies component of governance defines the required roles and organizational structures for each governance and management objective, as well as the skills and competencies that are needed for each role.13 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Roles, Responsibilities & RACI Charts

 A capability maturity model is a tool that assesses how well a process is implemented and performing at a given level, ranging from 0 (non-existent) to 5 (optimized). Each level defines a set of attributes that describe the characteristics of the process at that level, such as process performance, process documentation, process control, process measurement, etc. The model is based on the COBIT 2019 Process Assessment Model4, page 11. References: 4: COBIT 2019 Process Assessment Model | Digital | English

 An enterprise will often fail to realize implementation commitments during the execution of an EGIT implementation program plan if it focuses on enabling IT value over business value. IT value is the contribution of IT to achieving enterprise objectives, while business value is the overall benefit that the enterprise derives from its use of information and technology. Focusing on IT value over business value may result in a disconnect between IT and business stakeholders, a lack of alignment between IT goals and business strategy, or a failure to deliver expected benefits or outcomes. Therefore, it is important to balance both IT value and business value when implementing a governance system. The answer is based on the COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide3, page 38. References: 3: COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide | Digital | English

 Design factors are based on generic components of a governance system but are tailored for a specific purpose or context within a focus area. Design factors are the characteristics or aspects of an enterprise that influence the design and implementation of a governance system. They include factors such as enterprise size, industry sector, risk profile, regulatory environment, sourcing model, etc. Focus areas are topics or issues that can be addressed by governance objectives, such as digital transformation, cybersecurity, privacy, etc. COBIT provides guidance on how to use design factors and focus areas to customize a governance system.13 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information and Technology Governance Solution

The capability levels are a measure of how well an enterprise performs its information and technology governance and management processes in terms of process attributes such as process performance, process definition, process deployment, process measurement, process control, process optimization etc. The capability levels range from 0 (incomplete) to 5 (optimizing), indicating the degree of maturity and effectiveness of an enterprise’s information and technology governance and management processes. The capability levels are most likely to increase as a result of identifying specific design factors that increase the importance of certain governance and management objectives. The design factors are the characteristics or conditions that influence how an enterprise designs and implements its information and technology governance system using COBIT 2019. The design factors include aspects such as enterprise strategy archetype; enterprise goals; IT-related goals; risk profile; IT deployment; threat landscape; compliance requirement; operating environment; size of enterprise; culture; stakeholders; etc. By identifying specific design factors that increase the importance of certain governance and management objectives, an enterprise can tailor its information and technology governance system to suit its context and needs. This will also help to improve its capability levels for those governance and management objectives that are prioritized by the design factors. For example, if an enterprise identifies that its IT deployment design factor is cloud-based or hybrid-based, it may increase the importance of certain governance and management objectives such as managed availability and capacity (BAI04), managed service agreements (APO09), managed security services (DSS05), etc., which are relevant for managing cloud-based or hybrid-based IT solutions. By tailoring its information and technology governance system to address those governance and management objectives more effectively, the enterprise can also increase its capability levels for those processes.References: : COBIT 2019 Design Guide: page 33-48 : COBIT 2019 Process Assessment Model: page 11-13

 A key consideration when finalizing a governance system design with competing priorities is that the enterprise should be prepared to deviate from previously identified priorities with justified reasons. According to the COBIT 2019 Design Guide, competing priorities are one of the common challenges that enterprises face when designing a governance system. Competing priorities may arise from different stakeholder expectations, requirements, preferences, perspectives, or interests. The COBIT 2019 Design Guide recommends that enterprises use a structured approach to resolve competing priorities, such as the COBIT 2019 Governance System Design Workflow. The workflow helps enterprises to identify and prioritize their improvement opportunities based on a gap analysis between their current and desired states of governance. However, the workflow also allows enterprises to adjust their priorities as needed during the design process, as long as they provide clear and rational reasons for doing so. For example, enterprises may deviate from their initial priorities due to changes in the business environment, stakeholder feedback, new insights, or emerging issues. The deviation from previously identified priorities should be documented and communicated to all relevant stakeholders to ensure transparency and alignment. References: : COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information & Technology Governance Solution, page 32 2 : COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information & Technology Governance Solution, page 34

The IT implementation methods design factor describes how an enterprise develops, delivers, and maintains its IT solutions. There are four IT implementation methods defined in COBIT 2019: traditional, agile, DevOps, and hybrid. Each method has different implications for the governance and management of information and technology in terms of focus areas, processes, practices, roles, structures, and metrics. The IT implementation method that requires the highest level of participation by users at multiple stages of software development is agile. Agile is an IT implementation method that emphasizes flexibility, adaptability, collaboration, customer satisfaction, and value delivery. One of the characteristics of agile is that it involves frequent and direct interaction with users throughout the software development life cycle, from requirements gathering to testing to deployment. Users are considered as key stakeholders who provide feedback, input, validation, verification, acceptance, and evaluation of the IT solutions. Users are also involved in prioritizing the features and functionalities of the IT solutions based on their needs and expectations. Agile aims to deliver IT solutions that meet user requirements and expectations in a timely and cost-effective manner.References: : COBIT 2019 Design Guide, page 43-45 : COBIT 2019 Process Reference Guide: Governance and Management Objectives, page 67-69

 Within the COBIT organizational structures component, the Accountable (A) role is solely liable for the success and achievement of assigned tasks. This role has the authority to approve or veto any decision or activity related to the tasks, and is responsible for ensuring that the Responsible ® role has adequate resources and skills to perform the tasks2, p. 34. References: 2: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology

 An actionable strategy and governance system enables an enterprise to maximize value from the use of I&T by providing direction, alignment, oversight, and performance measurement. A strategy defines the enterprise’s vision, mission, goals, and objectives, and how I&T can support them. A governance system ensures that the strategy is implemented effectively and efficiently, and that the outcomes are monitored and evaluated. COBIT provides a comprehensive governance system for enterprise I&T that covers all aspects of governance, management, and enablers.13 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives

 The IT implementation methods design factor describes how an enterprise develops, delivers, and maintains its IT solutions. DevOps is an IT implementation method that emphasizes collaboration, automation, integration, and feedback between the development and operations teams throughout the software development life cycle. One of the management objectives that should be prioritized when using DevOps is managed solution identification and build (BAI03), which involves defining, designing, building, testing, and deploying IT solutions that meet stakeholder requirements and expectations. This management objective supports the DevOps principles of continuous delivery, continuous integration, continuous testing, and continuous deployment, which aim to deliver high-quality IT solutions faster and more reliably.References: : COBIT 2019 Design Guide, page 43-45 : COBIT 2019 Process Reference Guide, page 67-69

The level achieved when all processes of a focus area achieve a particular capability level is referred to as the maturity level. A focus area is a topic or issue that can be addressed by governance objectives, such as digital transformation, cybersecurity, privacy, etc. A focus area consists of a set of processes that are relevant and applicable for the topic or issue. A capability level is a measure of how well a process or activity is performed in terms of effectiveness, efficiency, completeness, reliability, etc. A capability level can range from 0 (incomplete) to 5 (optimizing). A maturity level is the level achieved when all processes of a focus area achieve a particular capability level. A maturity level can range from 0 (non-existent) to 5 (optimized).12 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance System

 After IT department goals have been aligned with enterprise goals, the next step is to link the alignment goals with governance and management objectives. Alignment goals are the intermediate goals that link the enterprise goals with the governance and management objectives. Governance and management objectives are the desired outcomes of the governance system for information and technology. Alignment goals are derived from the enterprise goals, which reflect the stakeholder drivers and needs. Governance and management objectives are derived from the alignment goals, which reflect how information and technology can support the enterprise strategy and objectives.14 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance System

 The COBIT principle that addresses the need to consider how changes in technology or strategy impact the enterprise governance system as a whole is that a governance system should be dynamic. This principle states that “a governance system should be responsive to changing stakeholder needs, conditions and options; adaptable to changing circumstances; able to learn from experience; and innovative in supporting continual improvement” 4. A dynamic governance system can anticipate and respond to changes in the internal and external environment, such as new technologies, business models, risks, or opportunities5. References: 4: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, page 23 5: COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives, page 20

The principles, policies and frameworks component of a governance system translates desired behavior into practical guidance. Principles are the fundamental norms or rules that guide decision-making and actions. Policies are the statements of intent or direction that define what is expected or required. Frameworks are the conceptual models or structures that define the key elements, relationships, and principles of a system. The principles, policies and frameworks component of a governance system translates desired behavior into practical guidance by providing a consistent and coherent basis for information and technology governance and management.14 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance System

The enterprise goal titled quality of management information is within the customer dimension of the IT balanced scorecard. The customer dimension focuses on how well the enterprise meets the needs and expectations of its customers and stakeholders. Quality of management information is one of the 17 generic enterprise goals defined by COBIT that supports the customer dimension. It describes the desired outcome of providing accurate, timely, relevant, and reliable information to support decision making and performance management.13 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives

The EGIT implementation program plan is a document that describes the rationale, objectives, scope, approach, benefits, costs, risks, and timeline of the EGIT implementation program. The EGIT implementation program plan provides the basis for obtaining approval, funding, resources, and support for the program from the stakeholders. The best time to acquire or develop solutions for implementing process improvement projects defined by the EGIT implementation program plan is when developing the EGIT implementation program plan. This means that before finalizing and submitting the EGIT implementation program plan for approval, the enterprise should identify or create the solutions that will enable it to achieve its process improvement goals and objectives. These solutions could include tools, methods, frameworks, standards, guidelines, best practices, etc., that will help to design and implement the desired processes in accordance with stakeholder requirements and expectations. By acquiring or developing solutions during the development of the EGIT implementation program plan, the enterprise can ensure that the solutions are aligned with the program scope and approach, that they are realistic and achievable within the program budget and timeline, that they are integrated with other program components such as change management and communication plans, and that they are approved by relevant stakeholders before execution5 References: 5: COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide: page 39-40 : COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide: page 49-50QUESTION NO: 24

When defining a governance implementation roadmap. what is the NEXT step after planning the program?

A. Initiate the

B. Realize benefits.

C. Review effectiveness.

D. Execute the plan.

Answer: D

 The governance implementation roadmap is a document that outlines the steps and activities involved in designing and implementing a governance system for an enterprise using COBIT 2019. The governance implementation roadmap consists of seven phases: what are the drivers; where are we now; where do we want to be; what needs to be done; how do we get there; did we get there; how do we keep up momentum. The next step after planning the program is to execute the plan. This means that after developing a detailed business case and high-level program plan for implementing a governance system in phase four (what needs to be done), the enterprise should proceed to phase five (how do we get there), which involves executing the program plan according to the defined scope, approach, benefits, costs, risks, and timeline. This phase also involves managing the program resources, deliverables, quality, performance, and stakeholder expectations, as well as monitoring and controlling the program progress and outcomes.References: : COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide: page 41-42 : COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide: page 51-52

 The functional task area that is responsible for assessing the potential return on investment (ROI) during future state planning is program management. According to the COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide, program management is one of the key enablers of IT governance and management, and it includes the processes and practices for planning, executing, monitoring, controlling, and closing IT programs and projects. One of the activities of program management is to conduct a business case analysis for each proposed improvement initiative in the future state plan. This analysis involves estimating the costs, benefits, risks, dependencies, assumptions, constraints, success factors, and ROI of each initiative. The analysis helps to prioritize and justify the initiatives based on their expected value to the enterprise. References: : COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide: Implementing and Optimizing an Information and Technology Governance Solution, page 15 1 : COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide: Implementing and Optimizing an Information and Technology Governance Solution, page 38 

The focus of an enterprise that has a cost leadership strategy design factor is short-term cost minimization. A cost leadership strategy is a competitive strategy that aims to achieve lower costs than competitors by offering standardized products or services at low prices. A cost leadership strategy design factor affects how an enterprise designs its governance system, as it implies a focus on operational efficiency, process automation, economies of scale, outsourcing, etc. An enterprise that has a cost leadership strategy design factor would prioritize short-term cost minimization over long-term cost optimization or medium-term cost equalization.12 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information and Technology Governance Solution

The chief information officer (CIO) is the best suited role to meet with the consultant to identify alignment goals. The CIO is the senior executive responsible for leading, directing, and managing the information and technology function of the enterprise. The CIO has a strategic role in aligning I&T with business requirements, ensuring I&T performance, managing I&T risks, fostering innovation, etc. The CIO has a deep understanding of both business and I&T domains, as well as their interdependencies. The CIO can collaborate with the consultant to identify alignment goals that reflect how I&T can support the enterprise goals.1 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, [COBIT 2019 Framework: Roles, Responsibilities & RACI Charts]

 The management objective “managed strategy” belongs to the governance domain “align, plan and organize (APO)”, which covers the use of information and technology in achieving enterprise objectives. A primary benefit associated with this management objective is that desired value is delivered through a roadmap of incremental changes, which ensures that IT initiatives are aligned with enterprise strategy, prioritized based on value creation, and monitored for performance2, p. 25. References: 2: COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives

The enterprise strategy archetype is a design factor that describes how an enterprise uses information and technology to achieve its goals and objectives. There are six enterprise strategy archetypes defined in COBIT 2019: growth/acquisition; operational excellence; customer intimacy; product leadership; data-driven; innovation-driven. Each archetype has different implications for the governance and management of information and technology in terms of focus areas, processes, practices, roles, structures, and metrics. One of the important components for an enterprise strategy archetype of growth/acquisition is support for the portfolio management role with an investment office. Growth/acquisition is a strategy archetype that emphasizes expanding market share, revenue, customer base, or product range through organic growth or acquisition of other businesses or assets. This strategy archetype requires effective portfolio management of information and technology investments and initiatives that support business growth or acquisition objectives. Portfolio management involves selecting, prioritizing, balancing, monitoring, evaluating, and optimizing information and technology investments and initiatives based on their alignment with business strategy, value delivery potential, risk exposure, resource availability, interdependencies, etc. Portfolio management also involves ensuring that information and technology investments and initiatives are integrated with business processes, systems, structures, culture, etc., especially in case of mergers or acquisitions. Support for the portfolio management role with an investment office means providing a dedicated function or unit that assists the portfolio manager in performing portfolio management activities such as planning, analysis, decision making, reporting, etc., as well as providing guidance, tools, methods, frameworks, standards, best practices etc., for portfolio management5 References: 5: COBIT 2019 Design Guide: page 35-36 : COBIT 2019 Process Reference Guide: page 59-61

The number of business processing hours lost due to unplanned service interruptions would be an appropriate metric associated with an enterprise goal of business service continuity and availability. A metric is a quantifiable measure that is used to track and assess the status of a specific process or activity. Business service continuity and availability is one of the 17 generic enterprise goals defined by COBIT that describes the desired outcome of ensuring that critical business services are delivered at agreed levels and are resilient to disruptions. The number of business processing hours lost due to unplanned service interruptions is a metric that reflects how well this outcome is achieved.13 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives

 The enterprise goal titled “Optimization of Business Process Costs” is aligned to the internal dimension of the balanced scorecard (BSC). The internal dimension focuses on the efficiency and effectiveness of the business processes that deliver value to customers and stakeholders. Optimization of business process costs is one of the 17 generic enterprise goals defined by COBIT that supports the internal dimension.12 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives

Selecting an implementation method is the final action before completing the design of an IT governance system. An IT governance system is a set of components that provide direction, oversight, evaluation, monitoring, assurance, etc., for an enterprise’s information and technology. The design of an IT governance system involves several steps or actions that help to customize and tailor the system to the specific needs and context of the enterprise. These steps or actions include defining design factors, defining focus areas, defining current state, defining target state, identifying gaps and improvement opportunities, defining roadmap and priorities, etc. Selecting an implementation method is the final action before completing the design of an IT governance system because it helps to determine how the system will be put into practice, what resources and activities are needed, what challenges and risks are expected, etc.12 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information and Technology Governance Solution

The process ‘Ensured Stakeholder Engagement’ (EDM04) is one of the governance processes in COBIT 2019 that involves establishing transparent communication with stakeholders about their needs and expectations from information and technology governance. This process also involves ensuring stakeholder involvement in governance decision making and monitoring stakeholder satisfaction with governance outcomes. One of the roles that is best suited for this responsibility is the board and executive management, who are the highest-level governance body and decision makers in an enterprise. The board and executive management have a duty to ensure that they understand the needs and expectations of various stakeholders such as shareholders, regulators, customers, employees, suppliers, etc., and that they communicate effectively with them about the enterprise’s strategy, objectives, performance, risks, issues, opportunities, etc., related to information and technology governance. The board and executive management also have a responsibility to involve stakeholders in governance decision making by soliciting their input, feedback, opinions, suggestions, etc., and by considering their interests and perspectives when making governance choices. The board and executive management also have a role in monitoring stakeholder satisfaction with governance outcomes by measuring stakeholder value realization from information and technology investments and initiatives.References: : COBIT 2019 Process Reference Guide: Governance and Management Objectives, page 25-27 : COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives, page 19-20

 The number of confidentiality incidents causing financial loss, business disruption or public embarrassment would be the best metric to enable an enterprise to evaluate an alignment goal specifically related to security of information and privacy. A metric is a quantifiable measure that is used to track and assess the status of a specific process or activity. An alignment goal is an intermediate goal that links the enterprise goals with the governance and management objectives. Security of information and privacy is one of the 17 generic alignment goals defined by COBIT that describes how information and technology can support the protection of sensitive information and personal data. The number of confidentiality incidents causing financial loss, business disruption or public embarrassment is a metric that reflects how well this alignment goal is achieved.12 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance System

The performance measurements are the indicators that measure the progress and outcomes of the EGIT implementation program plan against the predefined success criteria such as key performance indicators (KPIs), key goal indicators (KGIs), key risk indicators (KRIs), etc. The performance measurements help to evaluate the effectiveness, efficiency, and value of the EGIT implementation program plan, as well as to identify and address any issues, risks, or gaps that may arise during the execution of the program. The projects that should be included when reporting on performance measurements related to an EGIT implementation program plan are all projects deemed appropriate by IT management. IT management is the function that is responsible for planning, organizing, directing, controlling, and monitoring the information and technology activities in an enterprise. IT management is also responsible for selecting, prioritizing, balancing, monitoring, evaluating, and optimizing information and technology investments and initiatives that support business strategy and objectives. IT management has the authority and discretion to decide which projects are relevant and important for reporting on performance measurements related to an EGIT implementation program plan, based on factors such as project scope, size, complexity, duration, cost, risk, interdependencies, alignment, value, etc. By including all projects deemed appropriate by IT management when reporting on performance measurements related to an EGIT implementation program plan, the enterprise can ensure that the report covers the most significant and critical aspects of the program, and that it provides a comprehensive and accurate picture of the program status and performance12 References: 1: COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide: page 51-52 2: COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives: page 20-21

The process activities component of governance and management objectives includes the expected capability level. A process activity is a specific task or action that contributes to achieving a process outcome or objective. A capability level is a measure of how well a process or activity is performed in terms of effectiveness, efficiency, completeness, reliability, etc. A capability level can range from 0 (incomplete) to 5 (optimizing). Each governance and management objective in COBIT defines a set of process activities that are required to achieve it, as well as an expected capability level for each activity.12 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives

According to the COBIT 2019 Process Assessment Model, one of the prerequisites for determining performance measures for a process improvement initiative is to perform a process risk assessment. A process risk assessment identifies and evaluates the potential threats and opportunities that may affect the achievement of process objectives. A process risk assessment also helps to prioritize improvement actions based on their impact and likelihood.4, p. 11-12 References: 4: COBIT 2019 Process Assessment Model: Using COBIT 2019