COBIT-2019 Sample Questions Answers

 A governance or management objective always relates to a single process. A governance or management objective is a desired outcome or result of a governance or management activity for information and technology. A process is a set of interrelated or interacting activities that transform inputs into outputs. A process can be described by its purpose, goals, practices, activities, inputs, outputs, roles, metrics, etc. A governance or management objective always relates to a single process by defining its purpose and goals, as well as providing guidance on how to perform it effectively and efficiently.12 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives

 After IT department goals have been aligned with enterprise goals, the next step is to link the alignment goals with governance and management objectives. Alignment goals are the intermediate goals that link the enterprise goals with the governance and management objectives. Governance and management objectives are the desired outcomes of the governance system for information and technology. Alignment goals are derived from the enterprise goals, which reflect the stakeholder drivers and needs. Governance and management objectives are derived from the alignment goals, which reflect how information and technology can support the enterprise strategy and objectives.14 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance System

 According to Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI), Level 2 within the five maturity levels for processes best describes the outcome of the process achieving its purpose through the application of a basic, yet complete, set of activities that can be characterized as performed. CMMI is a process improvement approach that provides organizations with the essential elements of effective processes. CMMI defines five maturity levels for processes, from 1 (initial) to 5 (optimizing). Level 2 (managed) means that the process is planned and executed in accordance with policy; employs skilled people who have adequate resources to produce controlled outputs; involves relevant stakeholders; is monitored, controlled, and reviewed; and is evaluated for adherence to its process description.12 References: CMMI for Development, Version 1.3, CMMI Institute - Capability Maturity Model Integration

 The number of focus areas describing a certain governance topic or issue that can be addressed by governance objectives is virtually unlimited. Focus areas are topics or issues that can be addressed by governance objectives, such as digital transformation, cybersecurity, privacy, etc. Focus areas can be defined by any stakeholder or group within or outside the enterprise, depending on their needs and interests. COBIT provides examples of some common focus areas, but they are not exhaustive or prescriptive.13 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information and Technology Governance Solution

The planning for a new governance framework requires defining the inputs that will guide the design and implementation of the framework. One of the most important inputs is the enterprise goals, which are the high-level statements of what the enterprise wants to achieve in terms of its mission, vision, values, and strategy. The enterprise goals provide the direction and purpose for the governance framework, and help to align the governance objectives, enablers, principles, and practices with the enterprise’s needs and expectations. The enterprise goals also help to identify the relevant stakeholders, their roles and responsibilities, and their requirements and expectations from the governance framework34 References: 3: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, page 25-26 4: COBIT 2019 Design Guide, page 23-24

An enterprise that has been consistently growing over the years and has decided to adapt the COBIT framework from the growth perspective of the balanced scorecard dimensions should select product and business innovation as one of its most relevant enterprise goals. The balanced scorecard is a tool that translates strategic objectives into four dimensions: financial, customer, internal, and growth. The growth dimension focuses on how the enterprise can create new products or services, enter new markets, or improve its processes or capabilities to achieve long-term success. Product and business innovation is one of the 17 enterprise goals defined in COBIT 2019, which describe the outcomes that an enterprise wants to achieve from its use of information and technology. This goal relates to enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty by providing innovative solutions that meet their needs and expectations. The answer is based on the COBIT 2019 Framework5, page 38. References: 5: COBIT 2019 Framework | Digital | English

 The management of the IT function is the function that leads and manages the information and technology function in an enterprise, as well as supports and enables the information and technology governance. The management of the IT function includes roles such as CIO, IT managers, IT process owners, IT service owners, etc. The management of the IT function is responsible for resolving conflicting priorities in order to finalize the governance system design. The governance system design is the process of designing and implementing a governance system for an enterprise using COBIT 2019. The governance system design involves tailoring the COBIT 2019 components such as principles, enablers, goals, processes, practices, roles, structures, metrics etc., according to the enterprise’s context and needs. The governance system design also involves considering various design factors such as enterprise strategy archetype; enterprise goals; IT-related goals; risk profile; IT deployment; threat landscape; compliance requirement; operating environment; size of enterprise; culture; stakeholders; etc., that influence how an enterprise designs and implements its governance system using COBIT 2019. By resolving conflicting priorities in order to finalize the governance system design, the management of the IT function ensures that the governance system is appropriate for the enterprise’s strategy objectives performance risks issues opportunities etc., that it delivers value and benefits to the enterprise and its stakeholders that it aligns with the relevant standards guidelines regulations best practices etc., that it meets stakeholder requirements and expectations etc34 References: 3: COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives: page 20-21 4: COBIT 2019 Design Guide: page 33-48

Phase 1 of the COBIT implementation approach focuses on recognizing the need for change and initiating the program. A critical component of this phase is articulating executive management's desire and rationale for change within the enterprise. The most effective tool for this purpose is the development of a "Business case."

Business Case:This document serves as a formal justification for undertaking a change initiative. It outlines the strategic alignment of the proposed change with enterprise goals, the expected benefits, costs, potential risks, and the overall impact on the organization. By presenting a well-structured business case, executive management can communicate the necessity and anticipated value of the change, securing stakeholder buy-in and guiding decision-making processes.

Option A, "Balanced scorecard," is a strategic planning and management tool used to monitor organizational performance against strategic goals. While valuable for performance measurement, it is not specifically designed to convey the impetus for change.

Option B, "Risk assessment," involves identifying and evaluating potential risks that could impact the organization. Although understanding risks is essential, a risk assessment does not comprehensively capture the executive management's motivation and justification for change.

Therefore, in Phase 1 of the COBIT implementation approach, a "Business case" is the appropriate instrument to outline executive management's desire for change within the enterprise.

The high involvement of IT-related roles in organizational structures is a critical requirement when the IT function is strategic and crucial to the success of the business. The IT function is the part of the enterprise that is responsible for planning, delivering, operating, and supporting information and technology services. The IT function can have different levels of strategic importance for the business, depending on the nature, scope, and objectives of the enterprise. When the IT function is strategic and crucial to the success of the business, it means that information and technology are essential for creating value, achieving competitive advantage, enabling innovation, etc. In this case, it is critical to have high involvement of IT-related roles in organizational structures, such as having IT representation at the board level, having clear IT leadership roles and responsibilities, having effective IT governance committees or forums, etc.13 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Roles, Responsibilities & RACI Charts

 The COBIT principle that addresses the need to consider how changes in technology or strategy impact the enterprise governance system as a whole is that a governance system should be dynamic. This principle states that “a governance system should be responsive to changing stakeholder needs, conditions and options; adaptable to changing circumstances; able to learn from experience; and innovative in supporting continual improvement” 4. A dynamic governance system can anticipate and respond to changes in the internal and external environment, such as new technologies, business models, risks, or opportunities5. References: 4: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, page 23 5: COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives, page 20

The function of a mapping table when determining the initial scope of a new governance system is to indicate the relevance of a governance or management objective with a particular design factor. A mapping table is a tool that helps to identify and prioritize the governance and management objectives that are most applicable and important for the enterprise, based on its specific characteristics and context. A design factor is one of the characteristics of the enterprise that influence the design and operation of a governance system, such as size, industry, culture, strategy, etc. A mapping table shows the degree of relevance of each governance and management objective with each design factor, using a scale from 0 (not relevant) to 5 (very relevant). The function is based on the COBIT 2019 Design Guide, page 23. References: : COBIT 2019 Design Guide | Digital | English

 The accountable (A) role drives a given task or process within an organizational structure chart (RACI chart). A RACI chart is a tool that assigns different levels of responsibility, accountability, consultation, and information to roles and organizational structures for each governance and management objective. The accountable (A) role means being answerable for the outcome or result of a task or process. There should be only one accountable role for each task or process, as having more than one can lead to confusion or conflict. The accountable role drives a given task or process by ensuring that it is performed effectively and efficiently, by providing direction and guidance, by resolving issues or conflicts, by approving changes or exceptions, etc.13 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Roles, Responsibilities & RACI Charts

The process practices that include inputs and outputs comprise the information flow component of a governance system. A governance system is a set of components that provide direction, oversight, evaluation, monitoring, assurance, etc., for an enterprise’s information and technology. A governance system consists of seven components: governance components (such as structures, processes, principles, policies, etc.), governance enablers (such as people, skills, culture, information, services, etc.), governance outcomes (such as value creation, risk optimization, resource optimization, etc.), information flow (the exchange of information among components), culture (the shared values, beliefs, norms, and attitudes), ethical behavior (the conduct that conforms to moral principles), stakeholder needs (the requirements or expectations of internal or external stakeholders). The information flow component comprises the process practices that include inputs and outputs thatenable the exchange of information among components.14 References: COBIT 2019Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance System

The capability levels are a measure of how well an enterprise performs its information and technology governance and management processes in terms of process attributes such as process performance, process definition, process deployment, process measurement, process control, process optimization etc. The capability levels range from 0 (incomplete) to 5 (optimizing), indicating the degree of maturity and effectiveness of an enterprise’s information and technology governance and management processes. The targeted capability levels are the desired levels of performance that an enterprise wants to achieve for its information and technology governance and management processes, based on its strategy, objectives, needs, and expectations. The targeted capability levels provide a basis for defining the improvement goals and objectives for the processes. The capability-level gap analysis is a process that involves comparing the current capability levels of an enterprise’s information and technology governance and management processes with the targeted capability levels, and identifying the gaps or differences between them. The capability-level gap analysis helps to determine the improvement actions and initiatives that are required to close the gaps and achieve the targeted capability levels. The primary benefit or output derived from setting targeted capability levels and performing a capability-level gap analysis for selected processes is identification of process improvement opportunities. This means that by setting targeted capability levels and performing a capability-level gap analysis for selected processes, an enterprise can identify the areas of weakness or inefficiency in its information and technology governance and management processes, and determine the potential solutions or enhancements that can improve its process performance, quality, value, etc. This will also help to align the information and technology governance system with the enterprise’s strategy and objectives.

The capability levels are a measure of how well an enterprise performs its information and technology governance and management processes in terms of process attributes such as process performance, process definition, process deployment, process measurement, process control, process optimization etc. The capability levels range from 0 (incomplete) to 5 (optimizing), indicating the degree of maturity and effectiveness of an enterprise’s information and technology governance and management processes. The capability levels are most likely to increase as a result of identifying specific design factors that increase the importance of certain governance and management objectives. The design factors are the characteristics or conditions that influence how an enterprise designs and implements its information and technology governance system using COBIT 2019. The design factors include aspects such as enterprise strategy archetype; enterprise goals; IT-related goals; risk profile; IT deployment; threat landscape; compliance requirement; operating environment; size of enterprise; culture; stakeholders; etc. By identifying specific design factors that increase the importance of certain governance and management objectives, an enterprise can tailor its information and technology governance system to suit its context and needs. This will also help to improve its capability levels for those governance and management objectives that are prioritized by the design factors. For example, if an enterprise identifies that its IT deployment design factor is cloud-based or hybrid-based, it may increase the importance of certain governance and management objectives such as managed availability and capacity (BAI04), managed service agreements (APO09), managed security services (DSS05), etc., which are relevant for managing cloud-based or hybrid-based IT solutions. By tailoring its information and technology governance system to address those governance and management objectives more effectively, the enterprise can also increase its capability levels for those processes.

The initial scope of a governance system is the extent and boundaries of the governance system that an enterprise intends to design and implement using COBIT 2019. The initial scope helps to define the focus and direction of the governance system design process, as well as the resources and efforts required for its implementation. One of the key considerations when determining the initial scope of a governance system is the compliance requirements faced by the enterprise. The compliance requirements are the laws, regulations, standards, guidelines, contracts, or agreements that an enterprise must comply with regarding its information and technology activities. The compliance requirements influence the level of control and assurance that an enterprise needs to demonstrate its adherence to the applicable rules and obligations. By considering the compliance requirements when determining the initial scope of a governance system, an enterprise can ensure that its governance system is appropriate for its context and objectives, and that it can effectively manage the potential impacts of non-compliance on its reputation, performance, value, and stakeholder trust.

According to the COBIT 2019 Process Assessment Model, one of the prerequisites for determining performance measures for a process improvement initiative is to perform a process risk assessment. A process risk assessment identifies and evaluates the potential threats and opportunities that may affect the achievement of process objectives. A process risk assessment also helps to prioritize improvement actions based on their impact and likelihood.4, p. 11-12 References: 4: COBIT 2019 Process Assessment Model: Using COBIT 2019

The level achieved when all processes of a focus area achieve a particular capability level is referred to as the maturity level. A focus area is a topic or issue that can be addressed by governance objectives, such as digital transformation, cybersecurity, privacy, etc. A focus area consists of a set of processes that are relevant and applicable for the topic or issue. A capability level is a measure of how well a process or activity is performed in terms of effectiveness, efficiency, completeness, reliability, etc. A capability level can range from 0 (incomplete) to 5 (optimizing). A maturity level is the level achieved when all processes of a focus area achieve a particular capability level. A maturity level can range from 0 (non-existent) to 5 (optimized).12 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance System

Innovation and differentiation are examples of enterprise objectives design factors. Design factors are the characteristics or aspects of an enterprise that influence the design and implementation of a governance system. They include factors such as enterprise size, industry sector, risk profile, regulatory environment, sourcing model, etc. Enterprise objectives are the specific goals or targets that an enterprise sets to achieve its vision and mission. They are derived from the stakeholder drivers and needs, and are influenced by the design factors. Innovation and differentiation are two possible design factors that affect how an enterprise defines its objectives.12 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information and Technology Governance Solution

Providing clear definition of the processes and required activities facilitates the achievement of different capability levels in COBIT core model. Processes are structured sets of activities that produce outputs or outcomes for achieving specific objectives. Activities are specific tasks or actions that contribute to achieving a process outcome or objective. Processes and activities are defined by their inputs, outputs, roles, responsibilities, controls, etc. Providing clear definition of processes and activities helps to ensure that they are performed consistently, effectively, efficiently, and reliably, which leads to higher capability levels.12 References: COBIT2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives

 The management objective APO09 Managed Service Agreements involves ensuring that IT services are delivered in accordance with agreed-upon service levels and costs. This management objective covers the activities of defining, negotiating, establishing, monitoring, reporting, and reviewing service agreements between service providers and service consumers. This management objective is most relevant for an enterprise that plans to outsource all of its noncore IT operations but wants to ensure the proper level of governance, risk and compliance (GRC) controls. By applying this management objective, the enterprise can improve its service governance and management capabilities, ensure alignment of IT services with business strategy and objectives, enhance service performance and outcomes, and increase service consumer satisfaction and value realization. This management objective also involves ensuring that the outsourced IT services comply with the applicable laws, regulations, standards, guidelines, contracts, or agreements that govern the information and technology activities of the enterprise, as well as with the enterprise’s policies, procedures, processes, practices, etc. This management objective also involves managing the risks associated with outsourcing IT services such as loss of control, vendor lock-in, quality issues, security breaches, etc.

 The COBIT 2019 publication that includes a workflow for planning a tailored governance system for the enterprise is COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information and Technology Governance Solution. This publication provides guidance on how to design a customized governance system for information and technology using COBIT as a reference framework. It includes a workflow for planning a tailored governance system for the enterprise that consists of seven steps: define design factors; define focus areas; define current state; define target state; identify gaps; define roadmap; select implementation method.14 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information and Technology Governance Solution

People, skills and competencies are required for successful completion of all activities within a governance system. People are the individuals or groups who perform or are accountable for the governance activities and tasks. Skills and competencies are the abilities and knowledge that people need to perform their roles and responsibilities. People, skills and competencies are one of the seven enablers of a governance system, as defined by COBIT.12 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance System

 The enterprise goal titled “Optimization of Business Process Costs” is aligned to the internal dimension of the balanced scorecard (BSC). The internal dimension focuses on the efficiency and effectiveness of the business processes that deliver value to customers and stakeholders. Optimization of business process costs is one of the 17 generic enterprise goals defined by COBIT that supports the internal dimension.12 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives

Recognizing and rewarding EGIT implementation program performance is most beneficial when measuring realized program benefits. According to the COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide, recognizing and rewarding program performance is one of the key success factors for implementing and optimizing an EGIT program. Recognizing and rewarding program performance involves acknowledging and appreciating the achievements and contributions of the program team and stakeholders, as well as providing incentives and motivation for further improvement. Recognizing and rewarding program performance is most beneficial when measuring realized program benefits, because this is the stage where the actual outcomes and value of the program are evaluated against the expected goals and metrics. By recognizing and rewarding program performance at this stage, the enterprise can reinforce the positive impact of the program, celebrate the success of the program team and stakeholders, and encourage continuous learning and improvement. References: : COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide: Implementing and Optimizing an Information and Technology Governance Solution, page 17 : COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide: Implementing and Optimizing an Information and Technology Governance Solution, page 46

 The key program roles are the roles that are responsible for leading, directing, managing, supporting, and executing the EGIT implementation program. The nomination of these roles is a critical step in creating the appropriate governance environment for the program. One of the roles that should be involved in this nomination process is the board and executives, who are the highest-level governance body and decision makers in an enterprise. The board and executives provide strategic direction, oversight, guidance, and approval for the EGIT implementation program. They also ensure that the program is aligned with the enterprise’s vision, mission, values, strategy, goals, and objectives. The board and executives also appoint or endorse other key program roles such as the program sponsor, program manager, program steering committee, change champion network, etc.

 The most likely underlying cause for an enterprise not having success implementing IT governance because key staff are not participating in planning meetings is lack of senior leadership commitment. Senior leadership commitment is essential for ensuring that IT governance is aligned with the enterprise’s vision, mission, values, and goals, and that it receives adequate resources, support, and oversight. Without senior leadership commitment, IT governance may face resistance, confusion, or indifference from key stakeholders, resulting in poor implementation outcomes. The cause is based on the COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide4, page 25. References: 4: COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide | Digital | English

 The primary reason for management to conduct a process capability assessment is to better understand the current state as compared to the target state. A process capability assessment is a method of measuring and evaluating how well a process or activity is performed in terms of effectiveness, efficiency, completeness, reliability, etc. A process capability assessment can be done using different models or frameworks, such as CMMI or ISO/IEC 15504. A process capability assessment helps management to better understand the current state of a process by identifying its strengths, weaknesses, gaps, and improvement opportunities. A process capability assessment also helps management to compare the current state with the target state, which is the desired level of performance or outcome for a process.13 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT Process Assessment Model (PAM): Using COBIT 5

The Skills Framework for the Information Age (SFIA) has been used as a basis for developing guidance for the COBIT governance component of people, skills and competencies. SFIA is a globally recognized framework that describes the skills required by professionals who work with information and technology2, p. 36. References: 2: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology

 A process can meet a higher capability level if all activities of that level are successfully performed, in addition to the activities of lower levels. The capabilitylevels range from 0 (incomplete) to 5 (optimizing), and each level has a set of generic attributes that describe the expected performance of the process activities2, p. 30. References: 2: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology

The change enablement tasks are the tasks that involve preparing for managing and sustaining the changes that are required for implementing a governance system for an enterprise using COBIT 2019. The change enablement tasks help to ensure that the changes are aligned with the enterprise’s strategy objectives needs expectations etc., that they deliver value and benefits to the enterprise and its stakeholders that they overcome resistance and barriers to change that they create a culture of continuous improvement etc. One of the key change enablement tasks that must be completed during the driver identification phase of an IT initiative is identify the business and governance drivers. The driver identification phase is the first phase of the governance implementation roadmap which involves identifying and analyzing the internal and external factors that trigger or influence the need for designing and implementing a governance system for an enterprise using COBIT 2019. The business drivers are the factors that relate to the enterprise’s business strategy objectives performance risks issues opportunities etc., such as market conditions customer demands competitive pressures regulatory requirements etc. The governance drivers are the factors that relate to the enterprise’s information and technology governance strategy objectives performance risks issues opportunities etc., such as IT alignment IT value delivery IT risk management IT resource management IT performance measurement etc. By identifying the business and governance drivers during the driver identification phase an enterprise can establish a clear understanding of why it needs to design and implement a governance system using COBIT 2019 what are the expected outcomes benefits value etc., from doing so who are the relevant stakeholders their roles responsibilities requirements expectations etc., how to communicate engage involve them in the change process etc.

 Risk management focuses on the preservation of value, while value delivery focuses on the creation of value. Value is the benefit that an enterprise derives from using information and technology. Value can be measured in terms of effectiveness, efficiency, quality, innovation, etc. Value delivery is the process of ensuring that information and technology investments and services contribute to the achievement of enterprise goals and objectives. Value delivery focuses on the creation of value by aligning I&T with business requirements, optimizing costs and resources, enhancing performance and outcomes, etc. Risk management is the process of identifying, analyzing, evaluating, treating, monitoring, and communicating risks that affect the achievement of enterprise objectives. Risk management focuses on the preservation of value by ensuring that risks are within acceptable levels, that opportunities are exploited, that uncertainties are reduced, etc.12 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance System

 Culture, ethics and behavior are the most likely components of a governance system to be underestimated as factors in the success of governance and management activities. Culture, ethics and behavior are the shared values, beliefs, norms, and attitudes that influence how people behave and interact within an enterprise. They affect the motivation, commitment, collaboration, and performance of people, as well as the trust and reputation of the enterprise. Culture, ethics and behavior are one of the seven enablers of a governance system, as defined by COBIT.12 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance System

 Processes are key components of a governance system. Processes are the structured sets of activities that produce outputs or outcomes for achieving specific objectives. Processes define what needs to be done, by whom, when, how, and why. Processes are one of the seven enablers of a governance system, as defined by COBIT.12 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance System

An important component for an enterprise strategy archetype of cost leadership as defined by COBIT 2019 is support for the portfolio management role with an investment office. According to the COBIT 2019 Design Guide, cost leadership is one of the four generic enterprise strategy archetypes that describe how enterprises compete in their markets. Cost leadership means that an enterprise aims to offer the lowest prices for its products or services by minimizing its costs and maximizing its efficiency. One of the design factors that influence the governance system for a cost leadership strategy is the organizational structures. The COBIT 2019 Design Guide suggests that a cost leadership strategy requires a centralized and standardized organizational structure that supports the portfolio management role with an investment office. The portfolio management role is responsible for selecting, prioritizing, and balancing the IT investments that align with the enterprise strategy and objectives. The investment office is a function that assists the portfolio management role by providing financial analysis, reporting, and decision support. The support for the portfolio management role with an investment office helps to ensure that the IT investments are optimized for cost and value. References: : COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information & Technology Governance Solution, page 48 2 : COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information & Technology Governance Solution, page 51 

 The threat landscape is a design factor that describes the types and levels of threats that an enterprise faces from internal and external sources that could compromise its information and technology assets. The threat landscape helps to determine the level of security and resilience that an enterprise needs to protect its information and technology assets from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, modification, destruction, or disruption. When tailoring a governance system for an enterprise, one of the most important factors to consider for an operating environment with a high compliance requirement is the threat landscape. The compliance requirement is another design factor that describes the extent and nature of laws, regulations, standards, guidelines, contracts, or agreements that an enterprise must comply with regarding its information and technology activities. The compliance requirement influences the level of control and assurance that an enterprise needs to demonstrate its adherence to the applicable rules and obligations. By considering the threat landscape in relation to the compliance requirement, an enterprise can ensure that its governance system is appropriate for its risk profile and context, and that it can effectively manage the potential impacts of threats on its compliance status34 References: 3: COBIT 2019 Design Guide: page 41-43 4: COBIT 2019 Design Guide: page 47-48

 The figure in option C best illustrates the context of an enterprise governance of information and technology (EGIT) system because it shows how the EGIT system is influenced by the enterprise’s internal and external environment, and how it influences the enterprise’s governance system and IT-related goals. The figure also shows the four EGIT domains: Evaluate, Direct and Monitor (EDM), Align, Plan and Organize (APO), Build, Acquire and Implement (BAI), and Deliver, Service and Support (DSS). The figure is based on the COBIT 2019 Framework1, page 23. References: 1: COBIT 2019 Framework | Digital | English

Selecting an implementation method is the final action before completing the design of an IT governance system. An IT governance system is a set of components that provide direction, oversight, evaluation, monitoring, assurance, etc., for an enterprise’s information and technology. The design of an IT governance system involves several steps or actions that help to customize and tailor the system to the specific needs and context of the enterprise. These steps or actions include defining design factors, defining focus areas, defining current state, defining target state, identifying gaps and improvement opportunities, defining roadmap and priorities, etc. Selecting an implementation method is the final action before completing the design of an IT governance system because it helps to determine how the system will be put into practice, what resources and activities are needed, what challenges and risks are expected, etc.12 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information and Technology Governance Solution

 The management objective “managed strategy” belongs to the governance domain “align, plan and organize (APO)”, which covers the use of information and technology in achieving enterprise objectives. A primary benefit associated with this management objective is that desired value is delivered through a roadmap of incremental changes, which ensures that IT initiatives are aligned with enterprise strategy, prioritized based on value creation, and monitored for performance2, p. 25. References: 2: COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives

In the COBIT framework, adapting components with related documentation, including inputs and outputs, is primarily associated with "Process activities." Each governance and management objective within COBIT is supported by detailed processes that encompass specific activities. These activities are meticulously documented, outlining the necessary inputs required to execute them and the expected outputs resulting from their execution.

Process Activities:These are detailed tasks or actions within a process designed to achieve a specific purpose. For each activity, COBIT provides comprehensive documentation that includes:

Inputs:Resources, information, or prerequisites needed to perform the activity.

Outputs:The results, deliverables, or outcomes produced by the activity.

This structured documentation ensures that enterprises can effectively implement and tailor COBIT processes to align with their unique requirements. By referring to process activities, organizations gain access to the necessary guidance on what is needed to perform each task and what should be achieved upon its completion.

Option A, "Process practices," refers to broader guidelines or best practices for processes but does not provide the granular level of detail concerning specific inputs and outputs.

Option B, "Goals and metrics," pertains to the objectives and performance indicators used to measure success and effectiveness, rather than the detailed documentation of process execution.

Therefore, for enterprises aiming to adapt COBIT components with detailed documentation on inputs and outputs, "Process activities" serve as the most pertinent reference.

 The objectives of the Evaluate, Direct and Monitor (EDM) domain are best described by assessing strategic options and guiding senior management on the options chosen. This domain covers the governance activities related to setting direction, monitoring performance, ensuring compliance, and providing feedback to stakeholders. The domain consists of five governance objectives: EDM01 Ensure Governance Framework Setting and Maintenance, EDM02 Ensure Benefits Delivery, EDM03 Ensure Risk Optimization, EDM04 Ensure Resource Optimization, and EDM05 Ensure Stakeholder Transparency. The domain is based on the COBIT 2019 Framework2, page 30. References: 2: COBIT 2019 Framework | Digital | English

The fact that the governance system includes many components that work together in a holistic way best enables a governance system to achieve governance and management objectives. A governance system is a set of components that provide direction, oversight, evaluation, monitoring, assurance, etc., for an enterprise’s information and technology. A governance objective is a desired outcome of the governance system for information and technology. A management objective is a desired outcome of the management processes for information and technology. The fact that the governance system includes many components that work together in a holistic way best enables a governance system to achieve governance and management objectives by providing a comprehensive and integrated approach that covers all aspects of information and technology governance and management, as well as by enabling customization and tailoring to suit different contexts, needs, priorities, etc.12 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance System

 A primary consideration when addressing new issues within a flexible and open framework is maintaining integrity and consistency. This means that “the framework should be internally consistent; not contain contradictions or ambiguities; be complete in covering all relevant aspects of enterprise governance of I&T; and be coherent in its structure, terminology and presentation” 6. Maintaining integrity and consistency ensures that the framework is reliable, clear, and easy to use for all stakeholders7. References: 6: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, page 25 7: COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information and Technology Governance Solution, page 13

The value that I&T delivers should be aligned directly with the values on which the business is focused. This is based on the principle of alignment, which states that “governance of enterprise I&T should ensure that I&T-enabled investments are aligned with the enterprise strategy and deliver the expected benefits” . Value delivery is not only about maintaining or increasing value from existing I&T investments, but also about ensuring that new investments support the strategic objectives and stakeholder needs of the enterprise.

 The COBIT framework is designed to meet the I&T goals for the entire enterprise. The COBIT framework is a comprehensive governance and management framework for information and technology that helps enterprises to achieve their goals and create value. The COBIT framework consists of four core publications: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology; COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance System; COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives; COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information and Technology Governance Solution. The COBIT framework is designed to meet the I&T goals for the entire enterprise by providing a holistic approach that covers all aspects of I&T governance and management, as well as by enabling customization and tailoring to suit different contexts, needs, priorities, etc.14 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance System

 The component that should be considered for inclusion when considering the threat landscape design factor is information security focus areas. The threat landscape is one of the 11 design factors defined in COBIT 2019, and it refers to the current and emerging threats that may affect the enterprise’s information and technology assets, such as cyberattacks, natural disasters, human errors, etc. Information security focus areas are the specific domains or topics that need to be addressed by the governance system to ensure adequate protection of information and technology assets from potential threats, such as identity and access management, data protection, incident response, etc. The answer is based on the COBIT 2019 Design Guide4, page 17. References: 4: COBIT 2019 Design Guide | Digital | English

The primary objective of implementing the process of managed innovation is to improve customer experience by identifying and realizing new opportunities for business value creation from information and technology. This process involves scanning the external environment for emerging trends and technologies, engaging with stakeholders to understand their needs and expectations, evaluating and prioritizing innovative ideas, and executing and monitoring innovation initiatives. The process is based on the COBIT 2019 Design Guide1, page 75. References: 1: COBIT 2019 Design Guide | Digital | English

The enterprise strategy archetype is a design factor that describes how an enterprise uses information and technology to achieve its goals and objectives. There are six enterprise strategy archetypes defined in COBIT 2019: growth/acquisition; operational excellence; customer intimacy; product leadership; data-driven; innovation-driven. Each archetype has different implications for the governance and management of information and technology in terms of focus areas, processes, practices, roles, structures, and metrics. One of the important components for an enterprise strategy archetype of growth/acquisition is support for the portfolio management role with an investment office. Growth/acquisition is a strategy archetype that emphasizes expanding market share, revenue, customer base, or product range through organic growth or acquisition of other businesses or assets. This strategy archetype requires effective portfolio management of information and technology investments and initiatives that support business growth or acquisition objectives. Portfolio management involves selecting, prioritizing, balancing, monitoring, evaluating, and optimizing information and technology investments and initiatives based on their alignment with business strategy, value delivery potential, risk exposure, resource availability, interdependencies, etc. Portfolio management also involves ensuring that information and technology investments and initiatives are integrated with business processes, systems, structures, culture, etc., especially in case of mergers or acquisitions. Support for the portfolio management role with an investment office means providing a dedicated function or unit that assists the portfolio manager in performing portfolio management activities such as planning, analysis, decision making, reporting, etc., as well as providing guidance, tools, methods, frameworks, standards, best practices etc., for portfolio management5 References: 5: COBIT 2019 Design Guide: page 35-36 : COBIT 2019 Process Reference Guide: page 59-61

 The COBIT performance model is integrated into the COBIT core model. The COBIT core model consists of two main elements: the governance and management objectives (which define what needs to be achieved) and the performance model (which defines how well it needs to be achieved). The performance model is based on existing maturity and capability models (such as ISO/IEC 15504) and provides a common language to measure and communicate performance. The performance model consists of six levels (from 0 to 5) that describe the increasing degree of capability for each governance or management objective.15 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance System

When assessing organizational structures, it is most helpful when subcriteria for each criterion are defined and linked to capability levels. Organizational structures are the arrangements of roles and responsibilities that enable the enterprise to achieve its objectives. Organizational structures can be assessed using six criteria: clarity, comprehensiveness, integration, alignment, authority, and accountability. Each criterion can be further divided into subcriteria that describe the specific aspects or attributes of the criterion. Capability levels are the measures of how well a process or activity is performed in terms of effectiveness, efficiency, completeness, reliability, etc. Capability levels can range from 0 (incomplete) to 5 (optimizing). Defining and linking subcriteria to capability levels helps to evaluate the current and desired state of organizational structures, as well as to identify gaps and improvement opportunities.123 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information and Technology Governance Solution, COBIT 2019 Framework: Roles, Responsibilities & RACI Charts

The initiatives that should be scheduled for completion first when prioritizing improvement initiatives are the ones that are easiest to achieve and will garner business benefits. This approach helps to create quick wins and demonstrate value to the stakeholders, as well as to build momentum and confidence for further improvement efforts. The initiatives should also be aligned with the enterprise’s strategic objectives, risk appetite, and resource constraints. The approach is based on the COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide2, page 37. References: 2: COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide | Digital | English

According to the COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide, the best way for senior leadership to communicate its expectations for IT governance prior to commencing a governance implementation plan is to include a scope statement in the business case. The scope statement defines the boundaries and objectives of the IT governance system, as well as the roles and responsibilities of the stakeholders involved. The scope statement also provides clarity and alignment on what is expected from IT governance and how it will support the enterprise strategy.2, p. 25-26 References: 2: COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide: Implementing an Information and Technology Governance Solution

 One of the benefits derived from the use of COBIT is that it helps to ensure compliance with applicable rules and regulations. This benefit is primarily associated with an external stakeholder, such as a regulator, auditor, customer, or partner, who expects the enterprise to adhere to certain standards and requirements. COBIT provides guidance on how to align the governance and management of enterprise IT with relevant laws, regulations, and contractual obligations12. COBIT also helps to establish and maintain a compliance culture and program within the enterprise3. References: 1: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, page 17 2: COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives, page 19 3: COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information and Technology Governance Solution, page 77

The management objective related to optimization of system performance is managed availability and capacity. A management objective is a desired outcome of the management processes for information and technology. Managed availability and capacity is one of the 40 management objectives defined by COBIT that describeshow to ensure that I&T services are delivered at agreed levels, as well as optimized for current and future needs.14 References: COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives

In COBIT 2019, "Time-to-market" is closely associated with the enterprise goal of maintaining a portfolio of competitive products and services. This metric reflects the enterprise’s ability to deliver new offerings to the market efficiently, which is essential for competitive advantage. The COBIT goals cascade links time-to-market to this objective, emphasizing the importance of quick responsiveness to market demands as part of enterprise strategy​.