This paper explores how the Balanced Scorecard approach might be applied to measuring the performance of an IT department. Sample measures have been developed for each dimension of the scorecard for two key IT functions. A performance measurement record sheet has been developed to show how these measures would work in practice. The paper also outlines approaches to implementing, monitoring and reviewing these measures. Furthermore the benefits of such a performance management system and process have been identified.

For nonprofit organizations (NPO's), ICT is crucial to fulfil their social objectives. However, it is rare that ICT investments have monetary returns; ICT also has indirect impact on the social activity of NPO's. So it is very difficult for them both to decide about ICT investments and to evaluate their contribution to performance. NPO's should therefore define an appropriate evaluation framework, to understand if, where, what and how much to invest in ICT, to better achieve their mission. The evaluation framework described in this paper is based on the peculiar characteristics of nonprofit organizations, on the multidimensional evaluation criteria and on the balanced scorecard, adapted to the specific nature of nonprofit activities.

This paper shows, which concepts and frameworks currently exist to measure the performance of the IT de‑partment and its delivered IS services. We discuss how a performance management system might be designed and im‑ plemented with the purpose to monitor and improve the IT function. A performance metrics catalogue has been elabo‑ rated to document and to enable a common understanding of the individual metrics. Finally, this paper provides lessons learned and some recommendations for further research in the area of IT performance management.

Ever since the introduction of an 'IT productivity paradox' by Robert Solow, the business value of information technology (IT) has been the topic of many debates by practitioners as well as by academics. In these discussions a distinction can be made between the variance approach, investigating what the relationship between IT investments and organisational performance is, and the process approach, investigating on how this relationship works. Following the process approach, this paper describes a useful framework for assessing the organisational impact of IT. Secondly the paper considers the relation between IT impact and organisational performance and reviews the IT investment evaluation methods. The paper concludes with a proposal for a multivariable value assessment sheet, based on insights derived from the balanced scorecard theory.