Paper Number
ECIS2026-2850
Paper Type
CRP
Abstract
In today’s fast-paced business environment, IT Operating Models (ITOMs), invisible frameworks that define how the IT function works, are emerging as a critical, overlooked factor in determining an organization’s ability to innovate and compete. Organizations struggle to unlock strategic value due to misalignments in their ITOMs. The business-IT alignment literature demonstrates that strategic fit enhances performance but offers limited guidance on how alignment is operationalized in practice. Against this backdrop, this study presents a multi-layer ITOM taxonomy including 16 dimensions and 60 characteristics. Developed through interviews with C-level executives, our taxonomy reveals how organizations structure their IT and translates strategic alignment into operational reality. Our analysis identifies two archetypes: tech-forward organizations, where IT serves as a strategic driver for innovation, and less tech-forward, where IT remains a support function. The research advances theoretical understanding of ITOM design and offers practical guidance for CIOs aiming to harness the potential of IT.
Recommended Citation
Grauer, Teresa and Li, Mahei Manhai, "Navigating The Landscape Of It Operating Models Or “How It Works”" (2026). ECIS 2026 Proceedings. 23.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/ecis2026/gen_track/gen_track/23
Navigating The Landscape Of It Operating Models Or “How It Works”
In today’s fast-paced business environment, IT Operating Models (ITOMs), invisible frameworks that define how the IT function works, are emerging as a critical, overlooked factor in determining an organization’s ability to innovate and compete. Organizations struggle to unlock strategic value due to misalignments in their ITOMs. The business-IT alignment literature demonstrates that strategic fit enhances performance but offers limited guidance on how alignment is operationalized in practice. Against this backdrop, this study presents a multi-layer ITOM taxonomy including 16 dimensions and 60 characteristics. Developed through interviews with C-level executives, our taxonomy reveals how organizations structure their IT and translates strategic alignment into operational reality. Our analysis identifies two archetypes: tech-forward organizations, where IT serves as a strategic driver for innovation, and less tech-forward, where IT remains a support function. The research advances theoretical understanding of ITOM design and offers practical guidance for CIOs aiming to harness the potential of IT.
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