Classification of Research Results on Information Systems Alignment

Abstract

Information systems (IS) alignment has been rated one of the most\nimportant topics by senior management since the last decade. This paper defines IS\nalignment as the extent and appropriateness of one IS/IT construct (e.g. IS/IT plan,\nand IS/IT strategies) in relation to the other construct(s). However, alignment is a\ncomplex concept. Although several classification frameworks have been suggested,\nthey are only useful to understand the nature of alignment constructs. None classifies\nthe ways of discussing the final outcomes of an IS alignment assessment. This paper\nsuggests a classification framework to demonstrate how alignment results can be\ndiscussed and what approaches are available. It is expected that this framework not\nonly helps IS researchers initiate appropriate alignment research projects, but also\ndeepens readers’ (especially senior management) understanding of IS alignment\nresearch. Contributions, implications, future research projects are also discussed.