Abstract
This thesis concerns the governance of information systems (IS) projects. Practice and literature indicate that most IS projects cannot be considered as successfully delivered. The outcome of an IS project is the culmination of a vast chain of processes and practices that require guidance to achieve a desired outcome. This guidance of behaviour is referred to as governance. To this end, the concept of governance was explored to determine its foundations. Various theories of governance seem pertinent to the matter when the four dimensions of governance are used as context. Governance practices are applied in a governance context influenced by the power dimension, steering ability, source of influence and method of steering. Various forms of governance are implemented in this context. IS projects are influenced by corporate governance, information technology governance and the governance of project, programme and portfolio management (3PM). This influence is exerted at the three organisational levels and consists of various applicable practices and processes. The challenge is then to identify these applicable processes and where they are to be applied. To that end, a framework of such practices is required. A 3PM governance framework for the management of IS projects is proposed in this thesis. The applicable governance practices for IS projects, IS programmes and IS portfolios were identified. A mixed method approach was followed and the research questions were answered by way of quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. Through the use of exploratory factor analysis, sub-frameworks for project and programme management were developed. The application of Q-methodology delivers a sub-framework for portfolio management. Combining these sub-frameworks within the context of governance foundations yields a 3PM governance framework for the management of IS projects, programmes and portfolios. These categories of governance practices form the proposed framework and provide guidance for the practitioner regarding practical governance considerations for IS projects, programmes and portfolios.
Ph.D. (IT Management)