Domain 4 of 7 · Chapter 3 of 6

Governance

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Included in this chapter:

  • Directing and controlling: what governance is
  • Governance is not management
  • The three activities: evaluate, direct, monitor
  • The enabling nature of governance
  • How governance is tested

The three governance activities at a glance

Governance activityWhat it doesStem phrase that points to itClassic misread
EvaluateAssess the organization, its strategy, portfolios, and stakeholder relationships'assess the situation', 'review needs and conditions'Thinking evaluate checks compliance, which is monitor's job
DirectSet strategy, assign responsibilities, and establish policies and direction'set policy', 'establish the direction'Confusing directing with the hands-on delivery work, which is management
MonitorCheck that performance and results comply with the direction and policies set'check adherence', 'verify compliance'Reading monitor as setting the policy, which is direct

Cheat sheet

  • Governance is the means of directing and controlling an organization
  • A governing body is accountable for governance
  • Governance has three activities: evaluate, direct, monitor
  • 'Direct' sets policy; 'monitor' checks adherence
  • Governance enables and steers the whole value system
  • Governance operates above day-to-day management

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References

  1. https://www.itil.com/Itil-News-and-Announcements/itil-version-5-explained
  2. https://www.peoplecert.org/browse-certifications/it-governance-and-service-management/ITIL-1/itil-5-foundation-version-50-4154
  3. https://www.itil.com/professionals/certifications/ITIL-Foundation-Version-5