Principled Decision Making

Information systems principles apply throughout Information Technology Services (ITS) and take precedence over other considerations when information system decisions are made.

Principles generally provide guidance and direction for the use and evolution of information systems or business processes relative to the creation, deployment and operation of information systems. Deviating from principles may result in unnecessary and avoidable long-term cost and risk. The only way we can provide a recognized, consistent and measurable level of operations is if all units within the ITS abide by the same set of principles when making decisions.

Without principles, short-term considerations, convenient exceptions and inconsistencies will rapidly undermine the management of information systems.  Information system initiatives will not begin until they are examined for compliance with the principles.  Principles are inter-related and need to be applied as a cohesive set. Initiatives that conflict with the principles require the explicit approval of the Technical Architecture Committee through its designated Architectural Governance process.