Introduction
Welcome to this textbook on IT Governance, Policy, Ethics and Law. It is the culmination of 30 years of practical experience and academic research to create a practical guide for IT professionals.
The text is organised into nine thematically linked chapters:
Chapter 1 explores the different IT governance frameworks that are used to align IT strategy with business goals, manage IT risks and resources, and ensure IT compliance and accountability. We compare the main models, such as COBIT, ITIL, ISO 27000, and NIST.
Chapter 2 focuses on cybersecurity and data protection, two of the most critical challenges for IT today. We learn about the threats and vulnerabilities that affect IT systems and data, and the best practices and standards to prevent and respond to them. We will also discuss the legal and ethical issues related to data privacy and security, such as GDPR, HIPAA, and CCPA.
Chapter 3 examines the benefits and challenges of cloud computing and outsourcing, two of the most popular ways to deliver IT services in the modern world. We will look to the different types of cloud services and models, such as SaaS, PaaS, IaaS, public, private, and hybrid clouds. We also analyse the risks and opportunities of outsourcing IT functions to third parties, such as vendors, contractors, or consultants.
Chapter 4 investigates the topic of digital ethics and responsible AI, two of the most rapidly emerging and controversial areas of IT. We explore the ethical principles and dilemmas that arise from the use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in various domains, such as health care, education, business, or entertainment. We will also learn about the frameworks and guidelines that aim to ensure that AI is fair, transparent, accountable, and human-centric.
Chapter 5 covers the topic of intellectual property and copyright, two of the most important legal aspects of IT. We learn about the different types of intellectual property rights that apply to IT products and services, such as patents, trademarks, trade secrets, and copyrights. We will also understand the implications and challenges of protecting and enforcing these rights in the digital age.
Chapter 6 discusses e-gov and digital transformation, two of the most significant trends in IT today. We see how governments use IT to improve their efficiency, effectiveness, transparency, and citizen engagement. We will also examine how organizations use IT to transform their processes, products, services, and culture.
Chapter 7 looks at the impact of IT on society, both positive and negative. We evaluate how IT affects various aspects of social life, such as communication, education, work, leisure, culture, democracy, inequality, environment, health, and security. We will also reflect on our own roles and responsibilities as IT users and creators.
Chapter 8 addresses employee IT usage and policies, two of the most relevant issues for IT managers and workers. We learn about the rights and obligations of employees regarding their use of IT resources and devices in the workplace. We will also review the best practices and policies to regulate employee IT behaviour, such as acceptable use policies, social media policies, and BYOD policies.
Chapter 9 examines IoT security and privacy, two urgent problems for IT governance in the era of smart devices and connected things.
We will understand the architecture and applications of IoT systems, such as smart homes, smart cities, smart health, and smart agriculture.
We will also identify the risks and challenges of securing and protecting the data and devices that make up IoT networks.
I trust you will find this this book useful for your personal and professional development.
David Tuffley
