Information technology governance and organizational competitiveness: A case of Uganda Broadcasting Corporation

Abstract

This study was conducted to investigate the role of IT Governance on organizational competitiveness at Uganda Broadcasting Corporation. The study objectives were: to find out the influence of business-IT strategic alignment on organizational competitiveness; to assess the relationship between IT value delivery and organizational competitiveness and to find out the effect of IT resource management on organizational competitiveness. The study used a cross sectional survey design supported by both qualitative and quantitative approaches. A sample size of 70 respondents was used from a population of 82. Data was collected using the questionnaire; interview guide and documentary review checklist. The response rate of 100% was obtained from which key findings suggested an insignificant relationship between business-IT strategic alignment (0.235**) and IT resource management (0.203**) and a significant relationship between IT value delivery (0.422**) and organizational competitiveness. However, there were a number of inhibitors at UBC, ranging from lack of alignment, understanding of ICT, political interference as well as management gaps. From the study, it was learnt that IT needs to be socially and ethically appreciated so as to support business processes; IT helps in designing and formulating business and corporate strategies at all levels. On the issue of IT resource management, it was concluded that optimal utilization of IT resources in terms of utilizing IT applications and availability of information would support decisions however, underutilizing IT systems and its users reflects resource misuse. On the issue of IT value delivery, it was learnt that failure to align it with business negatively affects customer management. The study recommendations include the need to harmonize adoption procedures and the framework of IT governance so as to remain competitive. There is need to undertake benchmarking; conduct in house IT tailor made trainings and tighten supervision. Lastly, is the need to operationalize internal policies as well as integrated approach in UBCs strategic planning process.