ISO 38500

Clarity, Control, and Confidence in IT Governance

ISO/IEC 38500 sets out principles and a model for effective governance of IT, focused on guiding boards and top management. It is non-technical, making it ideal for executives to ensure IT:

1. Supports business objectives
2. Delivers return on investment
3. Operates in line with regulations and stakeholder expectations

The standard is built on six core principles:

1. Responsibility – Clear accountability for IT-enabled decisions
2. Strategy – IT is integrated with and supports the business strategy
3. Acquisition – IT investments are made with informed business cases
4. Performance – IT is fit for purpose and delivers promised benefits
5. Conformance – IT adheres to legal, regulatory, and policy requirements
6. Human Behavior – IT supports ethical use and respects people

ISO 38500 does not dictate how IT should be managed—it tells you what needs to be governed and why, leaving flexibility in how it’s implemented.

Smart Technology Decisions. Stronger Strategic Execution.

🌟 For Your Executives & Board

1. Confidence in IT direction and oversight
2. Clear visibility of IT value and risks
3. Stronger alignment between IT and enterprise goals

⚙️ For Your IT Operations

1. Structured governance to guide IT execution
2. Accountability across IT decision-making
3. Better integration with risk management and compliance functions

📊 For Your Management

1. Better resource allocation and project prioritization
2. Improved auditability and transparency of IT decisions
3. Increased agility in adapting to technological change

💰 For Your Finances

1. Better investment outcomes and cost control
2. Reduced financial exposure from IT-related risks or failures
3. Enhanced ability to secure stakeholder and investor confidence