State of ICT-Business Alignment: A Case of Zimbabwe

Literature Review

ICT as a resource should be deployed by organisations to create alignment with the business, (Pijpers, de Leenheer, Gordijn, & Akkermans, 2011). According to Zimbabwean National Information and Communication Technology Policy Framework (2005), ICT embraces the use of computers, telecommunication office systems and technologies for the collection, processing, storing, packaging and dissemination of information. Henderson and Venkatram (1993) defined alignment as the degree of fit and integration among business strategy, IT strategy, business infrastructure and IT infrastructure.

Mckeen & Smith (2003) viewed alignment as the state of harmony that exists between an organisation’s goals and activities and the supporting information systems. Luftman and Brier (1999) went on to define good alignment as a situation where the organisation is applying the appropriate IT in given situations in a timely way, and that these actions stay congruent with the business strategy, goals and needs. The government of Zimbabwe through its strategic plan 2010-2014 viewed alignment as the central point in order to produce effective results, as such the ministry pledged to ensure proper alignment in all business processes. In this context business refers to an operational entity or organisation with a clear statement of goals and mission to accomplish, be it profit making or non profit making, governmental or non – governmental, small or large.