Getting Back to I&T Basics Crafting Effective IT Governance and Policies By BRAD BROSIG, Assurance Manager, Risk Advisory Services, YHB Organizations must actively manage their information and technology (I&T) resources to remain competitive and secure. Yet many small and medium-sized enterprises lack structured approaches for effective I&T governance. Establishing solid IT governance with a robust policy framework isn’t just beneficial, it’s crucial for long-term success, security and efficiency. UNDERSTANDING IT GOVERNANCE AND ITS IMPORTANCE IT governance provides the structure to ensure IT investments and activities align with organizational goals and strategies. It encompasses leadership, structures and processes that help IT support and enable broader strategic objectives. Organizations often struggle with unclear roles, ineffective decision-making processes and misaligned IT initiatives. Without clear governance, IT projects may drift, become costly or fail entirely. A robust IT governance system delivers: • Strategic Planning and Alignment: Ensures IT initiatives support organizational objectives. • Reporting Lines: Establishes clear reporting, including a voice for I&T at the top. • Risk Management: Defines processes for identifying and managing IT and vendor-related risks. • Resource Optimization: Maximizes the value of IT resources, both human and technological. • Performance Measurement: Assesses and improves IT processes and services. • Compliance and Accountability: Supports adherence to regulations, standards and policies. This sounds like a lot — because it is. So where do we start? 28 WEST VIRGINIA BANKER
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