ISACACOBIT Design and Implementation certificate Questions and Answers
Which of the following stakeholders is responsible for creating or updating EGIT objectives following the completion of the first iteration of an EGIT program implementation life cycle?
Options:
IT managers and IT process owners
The CIO and business executives
The risk and compliance function and IT audit
The board of directors and the program steering committee
Answer:
BExplanation:
The stakeholders responsible for creating or updating EGIT objectives following the completion of the first iteration of an EGIT program implementation life cycle are the CIO and business executives. They have the strategic oversight and authority to set and adjust objectives based on the initial outcomes and evolving business needs.
The CIO and business executives play a critical role in ensuring that the EGIT (Enterprise Governance of Information and Technology) objectives are aligned with business strategy and goals. After the first iteration, their involvement is crucial to review progress, adjust objectives, and ensure continued alignment with enterprise priorities.
COBIT 2019 Framework References:
COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide, Chapter 7:Highlights the roles of senior management, including the CIO and business executives, in setting and updating EGIT objectives.
COBIT 2019 Design Guide, Chapter 4:Emphasizes the importance of executive involvement in governance system design and iterative improvement.
By engaging the CIO and business executives in this process, the enterprise ensures that EGIT objectives remain relevant and aligned with overall business strategy.
In which of the following phases should long-term targets be adjusted based on experience?
Options:
How do we get there?
Where are we now?
What needs to be done?
Did we get there?
Answer:
DExplanation:
In the COBIT 2019 implementation lifecycle, the phase where long-term targets should be adjusted based on experience is the evaluation phase, known as "Did we get there?". This phase involves assessing the results of the implemented governance and management practices to determine if the objectives have been met and to identify areas for improvement.
Detailed Explanation with References:
How do we get there? (Option A):
This phase focuses on developing and executing the plan to achieve the governance objectives. It involves identifying the steps, resources, and timeline needed to reach the desired state. While important for planning, this phase is more about action and implementation rather than evaluation and adjustment of long-term targets.
Where are we now? (Option B):
This phase involves assessing the current state of the governance system, identifying gaps, and understanding the baseline. It provides the foundational information needed to plan improvements but does not involve adjusting long-term targets.
What needs to be done? (Option C):
This phase is concerned with identifying the specific actions and initiatives required to address the gaps and achieve the governance objectives. It involves planning and prioritizing activities but not the evaluation and adjustment of long-term targets based on experience.
Did we get there? (Option D):
In this phase, the enterprise evaluates the outcomes of the implemented governance system against the set objectives and targets. It involves assessing whether the desired goals were achieved and analyzing the effectiveness of the governance practices. Based on this evaluation, the organization can adjust long-term targets to better align with practical experience, new insights, and evolving business needs. This phase is critical for continuous improvement and ensuring that the governance system remains relevant and effective over time.
According to the COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide, this phase includes reviewing performance metrics, stakeholder feedback, and lessons learned from the implementation process. These insights are then used to refine and adjust long-term targets to improve future performance and outcomes.
Conclusion:The correct answer isD. Did we get there?. This phase involves evaluating the results of the governance implementation, learning from the experience, and making necessary adjustments to long-term targets to ensure continuous improvement and alignment with the enterprise’s goals.
References:
ISACA. COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide: Implementing and Optimizing an Information and Technology Governance Solution. ISACA.
ISACA. COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology. ISACA.
In which of the following phases should quick wins be implemented in order to build credibility?
Options:
What needs to be done?
Where do we want to be?
How do we get there?
Where are we now?
Answer:
CExplanation:
In the COBIT 2019 implementation lifecycle, quick wins are essential for demonstrating early success and building credibility for the governance initiative. Implementing quick wins provides tangible results that can help secure stakeholder support and buy-in for the ongoing governance program. The appropriate phase for implementing quick wins is during the phase where the organization outlines and starts to execute the plan for achieving its governance objectives.
Detailed Explanation with References:
What needs to be done? (Option A):
This phase involves understanding the governance requirements, identifying gaps, and determining the necessary governance components. While important for planning, this phase is more about identifying needs rather than implementing solutions.
Where do we want to be? (Option B):
This phase focuses on defining the target state of the governance system, setting goals, and envisioning the desired outcomes. It is more strategic and future-oriented, outlining what the organization aims to achieve but not yet focusing on implementation.
How do we get there? (Option C):
This phase is about developing and executing the implementation plan to reach the desired state. It involves detailing the actions, resources, and timelines required to achieve the governance objectives. Implementing quick wins during this phase is crucial because it helps to demonstrate progress, build momentum, and validate the approach taken. Early successes in this phase can boost confidence and support for the broader governance initiative.
According to the COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide, achieving and demonstrating quick wins during this phase is critical to maintaining stakeholder engagement and demonstrating the value of the governance improvements.
Where are we now? (Option D):
This phase involves assessing the current state of the governance system, identifying existing issues, and understanding the baseline. It is more diagnostic and evaluative, laying the groundwork for planning but not yet focusing on implementation.
Conclusion:The correct answer isC. How do we get there?. Implementing quick wins during this phase helps to build credibility and support for the governance program by showing early, tangible improvements and demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of the proposed governance changes.
References:
ISACA. COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide: Implementing and Optimizing an Information and Technology Governance Solution. ISACA.
ISACA. COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology. ISACA.
At which stage of the governance system design flow are design factors translated into governance and management priorities?
Options:
Concluding the governance system design
Understanding the enterprise strategy
Determining the initial scope
Refining the scope
Answer:
DExplanation:
In the COBIT 2019 Governance System Design Workflow, design factors are essential elements that influence the tailoring and implementation of a governance system. These design factors include elements such as enterprise strategy, goals, risk profile, compliance requirements, and more. The stage where these design factors are translated into specific governance and management priorities is during the "Refining the Scope" phase.
Detailed Explanation with References:
Concluding the Governance System Design (Option A):
This stage involves finalizing and approving the design of the governance system. By this point, the design factors have already been considered and translated into actionable priorities.
Understanding the Enterprise Strategy (Option B):
At this stage, the focus is on understanding the enterprise's strategic direction and objectives. While it is crucial to gather this understanding to inform the governance system design, the actual translation of design factors into governance and management priorities occurs later.
Determining the Initial Scope (Option C):
This stage involves setting the preliminary boundaries and focus areas for the governance system. It identifies the broad areas that need governance attention but does not yet translate specific design factors into detailed priorities.
Refining the Scope (Option D):
During this phase, the initial scope is refined based on a deeper analysis of the design factors. It is at this stage that the design factors are critically analyzed and translated into specific governance and management priorities. This phase ensures that the governance system is tailored to the unique needs of the enterprise and aligns with its strategic goals, risk profile, and other key considerations.
According to the COBIT 2019 Design Guide, refining the scope involves using the identified design factors to make informed decisions about where to focus governance efforts and how to prioritize various governance and management activities. This ensures a targeted and effective governance system.
Conclusion:The correct answer isD. Refining the scope. In this phase, design factors are systematically translated into specific governance and management priorities, ensuring that the governance system is precisely aligned with the enterprise's needs and objectives.
References:
ISACA. COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information and Technology Governance Solution. ISACA.
ISACA. COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology. ISACA.
Which function within the IT corporate structure is responsible for classifying information using an agreed-upon classification scheme for a new data collection system?
Options:
Information security
Information privacy
.IT governance
Enterprise architecture
Answer:
AExplanation:
The function within the IT corporate structure responsible for classifying information using an agreed-upon classification scheme for a new data collection system is the Information Security function. Information security ensures that data is properly classified to protect it according to its sensitivity and criticality.
References in COBIT 2019 Design and Implementation:
COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives, APO13 (Managed Security):This objective outlines the responsibilities of the information security function, which includes defining and implementing information classification schemes.
COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide, Chapter 3:This chapter details how information security policies and practices should be established, including the classification of information assets.
COBIT 2019 Framework: Deliver, Service and Support (DSS05, Managed Security Services):This objective highlights the role of information security in managing security services, including data classification and protection measures.
By classifying information, the information security function ensures that data is adequately protected against unauthorized access and breaches, adhering to compliance requirements and supporting the overall security posture of the enterprise.
Which of the following would BEST enable the prioritization of governance objectives?
Options:
The IT strategic plan
A matrixed scoring methodology
The enterprises risk tolerance
Expected performance outcomes
Answer:
BExplanation:
In COBIT 2019, the prioritization of governance objectives is essential to ensure that the most critical aspects of IT governance receive the necessary focus and resources. A matrixed scoring methodology is considered the best enabler for prioritizing governance objectives because it provides a structured, systematic, and quantifiable approach to evaluating and ranking various governance objectives based on multiple criteria.
Detailed Explanation with References:
IT Strategic Plan (Option A):
The IT strategic plan outlines the strategic direction and objectives of IT within the organization. While it provides guidance on long-term goals and initiatives, it does not offer a detailed mechanism for prioritizing specific governance objectives.
Matrixed Scoring Methodology (Option B):
A matrixed scoring methodology allows the organization to evaluate governance objectives against a set of predefined criteria such as strategic alignment, risk impact, resource availability, and expected benefits. This methodology helps in objectively assessing and comparing the importance and urgency of different governance objectives. By assigning scores to each criterion, organizations can create a prioritized list based on overall scores, ensuring that the most critical and impactful objectives are addressed first.
This approach is comprehensive and takes into account multiple factors, providing a balanced and transparent means of prioritizing objectives. It enables decision-makers to justify their choices and ensures that prioritization is aligned with the organization's strategic goals and risk profile.
Enterprise's Risk Tolerance (Option C):
The enterprise's risk tolerance is an important factor in governance decisions, as it defines the level of risk the organization is willing to accept. However, while it influences prioritization, it is not a standalone methodology for prioritizing governance objectives. Risk tolerance must be considered within a broader context of criteria, which a matrixed scoring methodology can effectively encompass.
Expected Performance Outcomes (Option D):
Expected performance outcomes are crucial for evaluating the success of governance initiatives, but they do not provide a methodology for prioritizing objectives. They are one of the factors that can be included in a matrixed scoring methodology to assess the potential impact and value of each objective.
Conclusion:The correct answer isB. A matrixed scoring methodology. This method provides a robust, multi-criteria approach to prioritizing governance objectives, ensuring that decisions are made based on a balanced consideration of various relevant factors.
References:
ISACA. COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives. ISACA.
ISACA. COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information and Technology Governance Solution. ISACA.
Which of the following should be a KEY consideration for an enterprise when refining the scope of the governance system in the third stage of the Governance System Design Workflow?
Options:
Enterprise strategy
Current l&T-related risks
The risk profile
Compliance requirements
Answer:
AExplanation:
In the third stage of the Governance System Design Workflow, refining the scope of the governance system involves aligning it closely with the overall strategic direction and objectives of the enterprise. COBIT 2019 emphasizes that the governance system should support the enterprise's strategy to ensure that I&T-related activities contribute effectively to achieving business goals.
Key considerations for refining the scope include:
Enterprise Strategy (Option A): The primary consideration is ensuring that the governance system aligns with and supports the enterprise strategy. This involves understanding the strategic objectives, goals, and priorities of the organization and ensuring that the governance system is designed to help achieve these strategic aims. This alignment ensures that IT governance is not just a compliance exercise but a strategic enabler for business success.
Current I&T-Related Risks (Option B): While important, this factor is more about addressing immediate operational concerns and is typically considered earlier in the process to identify and mitigate significant risks.
The Risk Profile (Option C): Understanding the overall risk profile and risk appetite of the enterprise is crucial for shaping the governance system but is not the primary focus in the third stage. This aspect is usually addressed in earlier stages to ensure that the governance framework adequately covers risk management.
Compliance Requirements (Option D): Ensuring compliance is always a critical consideration, but like risk management, it is typically addressed earlier in the designprocess. Compliance requirements should be integrated into the governance framework but are not the key driver at the refining stage.
Thus, the correct answer isA. Enterprise strategy. By focusing on the enterprise strategy during the third stage of the Governance System Design Workflow, the governance system can be refined to support strategic initiatives, thereby ensuring that IT governance contributes directly to achieving business goals.
References:
ISACA. COBIT 2019 Design Guide: Designing an Information and Technology Governance Solution. ISACA.
ISACA. COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology. ISACA.
When assessing the current state of I&T, a continual improvement task includes:
Options:
developing metrics to monitor l&T performance.
identifying potential process improvements.
identifying key enterprise and supporting alignment goals.
raising executive awareness of IT and the value of EGIT.
Answer:
BExplanation:
When assessing the current state of I&T, a continual improvement task includes identifying potential process improvements. This task is essential for ensuring that IT processes remain efficient, effective, and aligned with business goals.
References in COBIT 2019 Design and Implementation:
COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives, BAI10 (Managed Continuous Improvement):This objective focuses on the importance of continually assessing and improving IT processes to enhance performance and value delivery.
COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide, Chapter 5:This chapter discusses the need for continuous improvement initiatives, including the identification of potential process improvements to optimize IT performance.
By continually identifying and implementing process improvements, enterprises can ensure that their IT functions remain competitive and capable of supporting evolving business needs.
Which of the following is the BEST approach to resolve competing priorities for the design of a governance system?
Options:
Base the design on initiatives that will yield the most immediate benefit for the enterprise.
Defer to risk and assurance management to determine priorities.
Utilize generic, pre-programmed computations to generate quantitative priorities for governance objectives.
Include all key stakeholders in the discussion of the design.
Answer:
DExplanation:
The best approach to resolving competing priorities for the design of a governance system is to include all key stakeholders in the discussion of the design. This approach ensures that diverse perspectives are considered and that priorities are aligned with the overall strategic goals of the enterprise.
References in COBIT 2019 Design and Implementation:
COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives, MEA04 (Managed Stakeholder Engagement):This objective emphasizes the importance of engaging stakeholders to ensure that their needs and priorities are addressed.
COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide, Chapter 3:This chapter discusses the value of stakeholder involvement in the governance design process to achieve consensus and align priorities.
Involving key stakeholders in the discussion helps to balance different priorities and ensures that the governance system design reflects a broad range of insights and objectives.
It is CRITICAL to perform a due diligence review following which type of event?
Options:
Shifts in the market or economy
Merger, acquisition, or divestiture
CNew business strategy or priority
External consultant assessment
Answer:
BExplanation:
It is critical to perform a due diligence review following a merger, acquisition, or divestiture. Such events involve significant changes to the organizational structure, assets, and operations, necessitating thorough review to identify risks, synergies, and compliance issues.
References in COBIT 2019 Design and Implementation:
COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives, APO12 (Managed Risk):This objective emphasizes the importance of risk management during significant organizational changes, such as mergers and acquisitions.
COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide, Chapter 3:This chapter outlines the need for due diligence in evaluating potential risks and ensuring that governance and management practices are adapted to new organizational contexts.
A due diligence review ensures that all aspects of the merger, acquisition, or divestiture are carefully assessed, mitigating risks and supporting a smooth transition.
Which of the following is a KEY change enablement task that must be completed during the driver identification phase of an IT initiative?
Options:
Identify the business and governance drivers.
Define high-level improvement targets.
Assign high-level roles and responsibilities.
Establish urgency for the changes needed.
Answer:
AExplanation:
A key change enablement task that must be completed during the driver identification phase of an IT initiative is to identify the business and governance drivers. Understanding these drivers isessential for aligning IT initiatives with the strategic objectives and governance needs of the enterprise.
Identifying business and governance drivers involves understanding the fundamental factors that influence the direction and priorities of IT initiatives. These drivers include strategic goals, regulatory requirements, market conditions, and internal organizational needs.
COBIT 2019 Framework References:
COBIT 2019 Design Guide, Chapter 2:Highlights the importance of identifying business and governance drivers as part of the design factors that influence the governance system.
COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide, Chapter 4:Discusses the process of identifying and analyzing drivers to ensure that IT initiatives are aligned with enterprise goals.
By identifying these drivers, the enterprise can ensure that the IT initiative is aligned with its strategic and governance objectives, thereby facilitating successful change enablement.
Which of the following needs to be resolved when finalizing the initial governance design?
Options:
Misaligned enterprise and IT goals
Budgeted versus actual resources
Objectives exceeding enterprise appetite
Conflicting inputs and priorities
Answer:
DExplanation:
The initial governance design process involves gathering inputs from various stakeholders, including business units, IT, and external partners. These inputs can sometimes conflict, and it is crucial to resolve these conflicts to create a unified governance system that supports enterprise objectives.
Key Steps:
Stakeholder Alignment:Ensuring that all stakeholders are on the same page regarding priorities and objectives.
Conflict Resolution:Addressing and resolving any discrepancies or conflicts in inputs to ensure a consistent and aligned governance system.
Prioritization:Establishing clear priorities to guide decision-making and resource allocation.
COBIT 2019 Framework References:
COBIT 2019 Design Guide, Chapter 4:Discusses the importance of resolving conflicting inputs and establishing a cohesive governance framework that aligns with enterprise priorities.
COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives:Emphasizes the need for alignment between IT and enterprise goals, requiring the resolution of any conflicting priorities.
Resolving conflicting inputs and priorities ensures that the governance system is well-aligned and effective in achieving enterprise goals.
When considering the IT implementation methods design factor, and the design factor value is agile, which of the following should be a management objective priority?
Options:
Managed data (AP014)
Managed enterprise architecture
Managed risk
Managed IT changes
Answer:
DExplanation:
When the IT implementation methods design factor value is agile, the management objective priority should be "Managed IT changes." Agile methodologies involve frequent changes and iterations, making effective change management crucial for success.
Agile methodologies emphasize flexibility, iterative development, and rapid response to change. As a result, managing IT changes becomes a priority to ensure that changes are systematically controlled, risks are mitigated, and alignment with business goals is maintained.
COBIT 2019 Framework References:
COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives, BAI06 Managed IT Changes:This objective focuses on managing all IT changes in a controlled manner, ensuring minimal disruption and alignment with business goals.
COBIT 2019 Design Guide, Chapter 3:Discusses the importance of aligning management objectives with specific design factors, such as IT implementation methods like Agile.
By prioritizing "Managed IT changes," the enterprise can ensure that its agile implementation remains effective and aligned with overall governance objectives.
Which of the following MOST effectively addresses cultural aspects of a major international IT initiative that impacts the entire enterprise?
Options:
Continuous improvement
Risk assessments
Change enablement
Program management
Answer:
CExplanation:
Change enablement most effectively addresses the cultural aspects of a major international IT initiative that impacts the entire enterprise. It ensures that changes are managed smoothly and that the organization's culture is considered and aligned with the new initiatives.
References in COBIT 2019 Design and Implementation:
COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives, BAI05 (Managed Organizational Change):This objective focuses on managing organizational change effectively, including cultural aspects.
COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide, Chapter 4:This chapter emphasizes the importance of change management practices in addressing cultural aspects and ensuring successful implementation of major initiatives.
Effective change enablement considers the cultural context, helping to align stakeholder expectations and promote acceptance and adoption of new initiatives across the enterprise.
What is the FINAL step in governance system design?
Options:
Define target capability levels for the most critical objectives.
Review governance objectives that correspond to high compliance requirements.
Reconcile inherent priority conflicts.
Refine the scope of the governance system.
Answer:
CExplanation:
The final step in governance system design is to reconcile inherent priority conflicts. This ensures that all conflicting priorities among stakeholders are addressed and resolved to create a cohesive and aligned governance system.
The reconciliation of inherent priority conflicts is a critical final step to ensure that the designed governance system can effectively meet the needs and expectations of all stakeholders. This involves negotiating and balancing different priorities to ensure that the governance objectives are achievable and aligned with the enterprise’s strategic goals.
COBIT 2019 Framework References:
COBIT 2019 Design Guide, Chapter 5:Emphasizes the importance of addressing and reconciling priority conflicts to finalize the governance system design.
COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide, Chapter 7:Discusses the necessity of resolving conflicts and aligning objectives as part of the final steps in the governance system design process.
By reconciling priority conflicts, the enterprise ensures that the governance system is practical, balanced, and capable of delivering the desired outcomes.
When is it MOST important for an enterprise to apply the full governance design workflow and carefully consider all design factors?
Options:
When the enterprise requires a broad, holistic, and comprehensive view of its governance system
When key stakeholders cannot agree on governance objectives, strategy, and priorities
When the enterprise needs to focus on one key initiative requiring a major investment
When the enterprise must meet complex regulatory requirements for which the enterprise is not currently in compliance
Answer:
AExplanation:
Applying the full governance design workflow and carefully considering all design factors is most important when an enterprise requires a broad, holistic, and comprehensive view of its governance system. This scenario is where the entire spectrum of the governance framework needs to be analyzed and tailored to ensure it meets the enterprise's overall strategic goals and operational needs.
References in COBIT 2019 Design and Implementation:
COBIT 2019 Design Guide, Chapter 2:This chapter elaborates on how design factors influence the creation of a tailored governance system that is comprehensive and aligns with the enterprise's unique context.
COBIT 2019 Framework: Introduction and Methodology, Chapter 4:This chapter discusses the importance of a holistic approach in establishing governance and the necessity of considering all design factors to create a system that encompasses all aspects of enterprise IT and business objectives.
COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide, Chapter 3:This chapter provides steps for implementing a comprehensive governance system, emphasizing the importance of a full governance design workflow to achieve a thorough and effective governance structure.
By following the full governance design workflow, enterprises can ensure that their governance framework is not only comprehensive but also customized to address specific needs, thereby improving alignment, efficiency, and compliance across the organization.
I&T-related issues should be considered as part of the design factors for a governance system in order to manage:
Options:
risks that could materialize.
risks that have already materialized.
risks that have a high probability.
risks that have a high impact.
Answer:
AExplanation:
I&T-related issues should be considered as part of the design factors for a governance system in order to manage risks that could materialize. This proactive approach allows the enterprise to identify and mitigate potential risks before they occur, enhancing the overall resilience and effectiveness of the governance system.
References in COBIT 2019 Design and Implementation:
COBIT 2019 Design Guide, Chapter 2:This chapter explains the importance of considering I&T-related issues as design factors to address potential risks that could impact the governance system.
COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives, APO12 (Managed Risk):This objective emphasizes the need to identify and manage risks that could affect IT and business processes.
By addressing potential risks through the design of the governance system, enterprises can better prepare for and mitigate adverse events, ensuring smoother and more effective IT operations.
Which of the following is the BEST approach when developing an EGIT implementation program plan?
Options:
Process improvement objectives should not be changed or updated.
Projects that are high-benefit and relatively easy to implement should be selected first.
All projects should be given the same value and consideration for implementation.
Unapproved projects should not be recorded or considered.
Answer:
BExplanation:
When developing an EGIT (Enterprise Governance of IT) implementation program plan, the best approach is to select projects that are high-benefit and relatively easy to implement first. This approach, often referred to as "low-hanging fruit," helps build momentum, demonstrate value quickly, and secure buy-in from stakeholders for more complex initiatives.
References in COBIT 2019 Design and Implementation:
COBIT 2019 Implementation Guide, Chapter 5:This chapter outlines the importance of prioritizing projects that can deliver quick wins to maintain stakeholder support and demonstrate the value of the governance framework.
COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives, BAI01 (Managed Programs):This objective discusses the prioritization of initiatives based on their potential benefits and implementation feasibility.
By focusing on high-benefit, easy-to-implement projects, enterprises can create a solid foundation for more challenging initiatives and ensure continuous progress in their governance implementation efforts.
