Module 2 – Case
IT GOVERNANCE AND DECISION MAKING
Assignment Overview
In this case we investigate the technology-related decision
making in organizations.
We start by introducing the objective of governance specific
to the information technology function and services.
Next, we offer to you the fundamental battle in technology
management—the constant tug-of-war between centralization and decentralization.
We then provide several examples of how real-world
organizations have reconciled their choices in how to structure themselves.
Next, we present an overview of decision making processes
and some of the methods for making decisions.
Finally, we present insight into the complexity of
real-world choices highlight the politics of information.
Before writing-up the Case paper, make sure you read and
review the course materials assigned to Module 2.
Case Assignment
Using the “structure of governance focus area” found on
Figure 1 in the following COBIT case study, write a 4-5 page report comparing
and describing the IT governance structure and decision-making processes in
your organization. Include a discussion on the strengths and weaknesses of your
organization’s circumstances and present and justify one specific improvement
you would make to either the structure or a process. Be sure to apply the
concepts and use the terminology provided in the readings and case study.
Follow the case study in terms of “finding derived value” and “next steps” to
discuss your organization.
Please note that the ISACA website may give an error as you
click on the URL, but it will still link you to the case.
ISACA (2015). Developing a governance framework for the
global support organization at GlaxoSmithKline, using COBIT. Retrieved from
http://www.isaca.org/Knowledge-Center/cobit/Pages/COBIT-Case-Study-Developing-a-Governance-Framework-for-the-Global-Support-Organisation-at-GlaxoSmithKline-Using-COBIT.aspx
Assignment Expectations
Your assignments will be graded following these
expectations:
The Case should be 4-5 pages excluding cover page and
reference list.
Precision: the questions asked are answered.
Clarity: Your answers are clear and show your good
understanding of the topic.
Breadth and depth: The scope covered in your paper is
directly related to the questions of the assignment and the learning objectives
of the module.
Critical Thinking: It is important to read the “required
readings” posted in the background material plus others you find relevant. Your
paper should include important concepts from these readings and incorporate
YOUR reactions and examples that illustrate your reflective judgment and good
understanding of the concepts.
Your paper meets the page requirements not counting the
cover page or the references pages.
Module 2 – SLP
IT GOVERNANCE AND DECISION MAKING
Working with the Excel Environment
Excel allows us to calculate numerical information using
formulas. In Module 2, we learn how to use cell references to create formulas.
In order to create a formula, we need to learn about Excel standard operators
for formulas. These operators are a plus sign (+) for addition, a minus sign
(-) for subtraction, an asterisk (*) for multiplication, a forward slash (/)
for division, and a caret (^) for exponents. Excel uses = sign to start a
formula, and that cell must be equal to the formula which is calculated for.
SLP2 Excel Operations
Source: http://www.gcflearnfree.org/excel2013/13
Excel 2013 uses features like the Ribbon and Quick Access
toolbar to perform common tasks. The Ribbon in Excel 2013 uses a tabbed Ribbon
system rather the traditional menu. Below is the description of the different
tabs in Excel 2010-2013.
Understanding cell references
A cell is recognized by its address. The intersection of a
columns and a row represent a cell address. For instance, column B and row 3 is
the cell B3. The cell value is the value of what we calculate for a specific
cell. For instance, if we B1 = 15, B2 = 25, then the value of B3 = B1+B2 or B3
= 15+25=40, therefore, the value of B3 = 40 as shown below.
In formula section we have, Fx =A1+A2
15
25
B1+B2= 40
Please review the following link and watch the following
section videos.
Refer to tutorials at http://www.gcflearnfree.org/excel2013
Formatting Cells
Worksheet Basics
Page Layout
Printing Workbooks
Simple Formula
Complex Formulas
Relative Absolute Cell References
Functions
SLP Assignment
Please note that SLP 2 Assignment has the following
exercises and basic spreadsheet exercises from the Abacus Training site.
Use the table below to do the following.
A
B
C
D
11
30
36
20
2
70
31
11
35
45
35
14
= A1+A2+A3+A4
= B4 – B2
= C4/B2
= C3/5
A4^2
Write the cell address according above table for the
following:
Gas used for June
36
Gas used for May
45
Total used gas
81
Use the below table to calculate the total for each item;
however, instead of manual work, use the formula function. For example, to
calculate each item, you need to do the following.
Place = on the formula bar in the Total column
Multiple Quantity X Unit Price in the Total column
Fast Shop
Item
Quantity
Unit price
Total
Lighter
25
$1.99
Pepsi
17
$1.73
Hot dog
47
$1.05
Ice bag
11
$2.21
After completing the Excel exercise above, please continue
developing the Abacus Excel spreadsheet exercises located at
http://triplecsa.fhost.com.au/Blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Basic-Spreadsheet-Concepts-Exercises.pdf
and as noted below.
Exercise 1 – Sales for the Month
Exercise 2 – Sales
and Produce Department
Exercise 3 – Mike’s Stationery Order
Create an Excel file with designated folders 1-4 to develop
the above exercises.
SLP Assignment Expectations
The SLP should be developed in Excel. Your assignments will
be graded following these expectations:
Precision: The questions asked are answered.
Clarity: Your answers are clear and show your good
understanding of the topic.
Breadth and depth: The scope covered in your paper is directly
related to the questions of the assignment and the learning objectives of the
module.
Critical Thinking: It is important to read the “required
readings” posted in the background material plus others you find relevant. Your
paper should include important concepts from these readings and incorporate
your reactions and examples that illustrate your reflective judgment and good
understanding of the concepts.
