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Governance-Knowledge Fit in Systems Development Projects

Author

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  • Amrit Tiwana

    (Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011-1350)

Abstract

This study addresses the theoretically underexplored question of how fit between project governance configurations, and the knowledge of specialized information technology (IT) and client departments, influences information systems development (ISD) performance. It conceptualizes project governance configurations using two classes of project decisions rights---decision control rights and decision management rights. The paper then develops a middle-range theory of how governance-knowledge fit shapes ISD performance by influencing the effective exercise of these decision rights during the development process. Further, the two dimensions of ISD performance---efficiency and effectiveness---are shaped by different classes of project decision rights. Data from 89 projects in 89 firms strongly support the proposed ideas. Implications for theory and practice are also discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Amrit Tiwana, 2009. "Governance-Knowledge Fit in Systems Development Projects," Information Systems Research, INFORMS, vol. 20(2), pages 180-197, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:inm:orisre:v:20:y:2009:i:2:p:180-197
    DOI: 10.1287/isre.1070.0164
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    3. A. J. Burns & Tom L. Roberts & Clay Posey & Paul Benjamin Lowry & Bryan Fuller, 2023. "Going Beyond Deterrence: A Middle-Range Theory of Motives and Controls for Insider Computer Abuse," Information Systems Research, INFORMS, vol. 34(1), pages 342-362, March.
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    6. Amrit Tiwana & Benn Konsynski, 2010. "Complementarities Between Organizational IT Architecture and Governance Structure," Information Systems Research, INFORMS, vol. 21(2), pages 288-304, June.

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