Enhancing the Quality of ICT Regulation in Iran: A Study on the Application of the COBIT IT Governance Framework
Subject Areas : IT Strategy
Ehsan Baraty
1
,
Akbar Nabiollahi
2
*
,
Naser Khani
3
1 - Ph.D Student in Information Technology Management, Management Department, Najafabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Najafabad, Iran.
2 - Assistant Prof., Computer Engineering Faculty, Najafabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Najafabad, Iran
3 - Associate Prof., Management Department, Najafabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Najafabad, Iran.
Keywords: ICT Regulatory Tracker, COBIT Framework, ICT Regulation Quality, Digital Transformation.,
Abstract :
This study explores the application of the COBIT (Control Objectives for Information and Related Technologies) IT governance framework to enhance the ICT Regulatory Tracker (ICTRT) scores, a tool developed by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to assess ICT regulatory bodies across countries. Given the absence of specific improvement strategies from the ITU, this research fills a critical gap by investigating how COBIT processes can be leveraged for ICT regulation improvement. Utilizing an Automatic Content Analysis (ACA) method, we identified significant relationships between 22 out of 37 COBIT processes and ICTRT indicators, with particular emphasis on APO09, APO11, and DSS02 processes. Focus group methodology employed to validate these findings and development of a continuous improvement plan tailored for Iran's ICT regulatory body. This plan integrates 13 COBIT processes from the identified set, providing a structured approach for implementation. The findings not only highlight effective COBIT processes but also offer actionable insights for regulatory bodies aiming to enhance their regulatory quality and advance towards a digital economy.
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