The Most Critical Factor for a Newly Implemented IT Governance Program

C.

Sustaining a newly implemented IT governance program requires a comprehensive approach that involves many different elements. However, among the given options, the MOST critical for sustaining a newly implemented IT governance program is to ensure that there are IT policies, procedures, and standards in place (Option C).

IT policies, procedures, and standards are the foundation of any IT governance program. They provide a set of guidelines and principles that govern the behavior and actions of IT personnel and stakeholders. Without these policies, procedures, and standards in place, there would be no framework to guide decision-making, prioritize IT investments, or manage risk. Moreover, policies, procedures, and standards help establish consistency and ensure compliance with regulations and laws.

While all of the options provided are essential to sustaining an IT governance program, the most critical is to have policies, procedures, and standards in place. An enterprise-wide IT governance awareness program (Option A) is necessary to raise awareness and understanding of the program's goals and objectives, but it won't be effective if there is no framework for governance. Designating a board representative to sponsor the IT governance program (Option B) can be useful to provide executive-level support and commitment, but it won't sustain the program without the necessary policies and standards. Benchmarking the program periodically against industry peers (Option D) is valuable to assess the program's effectiveness and identify areas for improvement, but it is not as critical as having policies, procedures, and standards in place.

In summary, having IT policies, procedures, and standards in place is the MOST critical for sustaining a newly implemented IT governance program. These foundational elements help provide a framework for governance, establish consistency, ensure compliance, and guide decision-making.