The IT-CMF consists of a five-stage maturity model used to organize and structure a framework for mapping IT improvement efforts. The holistic approach of the IT-CMF is reflected by its four foundational macro processes:

• Managing IT like a Business: shifting the focus from technology and production to a focus on customers and services
• Managing the IT Budget: investing in innovative IT solutions that deliver better value and performance
• Managing the IT Capability: managing IT assets throughout the value chain and developing core competencies
• Managing IT for Business Value: linking IT investments to overall business benefits

In total, the IT-CMF identifies 36 core processes and categorizes them under these four dimensions to cover all activities in an IT department. An assessment of an IT organization's maturity across these 36 processes, together with comparisons to industry benchmarks and best practices, will highlight the company's key maturity gaps and value-creation opportunities.

See also "New Framework Designed to Optimize IT Value" on CIO Update for a better understanding of the term.

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New Framework Designed to Optimize IT Value
The main issue CIOs face in today's recessionary climate is trying to derive greater demonstrable business value from IT spend amid tight IT budgets.

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