Integrating IT Governance with Project Management: A Framework for High-Risk Technology Projects

Abstract

High-risk technology projects in U.S. organizations are increasingly prevalent due to the rapid adoption of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity systems, cloud computing, and infrastructure automation. The study team conducted a cross-sectional survey during 2024, which gathered data from 285 professionals who worked in various U.S.-based organizations that handle high-risk technology projects. The research team utilized a structured questionnaire to assess governance components, including strategic alignment and clarity of decision rights, governance maturity and effectiveness of risk management, and compliance monitoring. The study team employed descriptive statistics together with chi-square tests and regression analyses to examine how governance variables link to project outcomes and predict their results. Descriptive analysis indicated that 69.5% of respondents reported high project success, 63.2% experienced low risk exposure, and 57.8% indicated timely decision-making. The survey results showed that 25.6% of participants chose strategic alignment as their top priority, while 20.3% selected risk management effectiveness. The chi-square and regression analysis revealed significant correlations between strategic alignment and project success (χ² = 22.48, p = 0.002, B = 0.48), as well as between risk management and project success (χ² = 28.36, p = 0.040, B = 0.52). The statistical analysis indicated that the p-values for decision-making efficiency, compliance monitoring, and stakeholder engagement were close to 0.05. This conclusion means that these factors have a moderate effect on the project's results. The investigation demonstrates that American organizations need to establish governance systems by following these guidelines to achieve better project outcomes.