Technology Governance

Overview

The Technology Governance Committee was established at SF State in 2022 with the support of Academic Technology (AT) and Information Technology Services (ITS). As technology continues to play an integral role in every aspect of academia, from administrative processes to classroom instruction, having a robust governance framework ensures the responsible and effective use of technology resources. With clear policies and guidelines in place, the University can safeguard sensitive data, protect against cyber threats, and maintain compliance with relevant regulations. Moreover, technology governance fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, enabling faculty and staff to explore cutting-edge solutions that enhance the learning experience for our students. By streamlining decision-making processes and promoting best practices, San Francisco State University can stay at the forefront of technological advancements and achieve its mission of providing high-quality education to students while adapting to the dynamic technological landscape and strategic goals.

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Charge

The Technology Governance Committee is charged with empowering shared technology governance to identify and advocate for opportunities through leveraging limited campus technology resources in support of University strategic goals.

Purpose

Technology Governance will advise President, Vice President of Academic Affairs/Provost, and the Vice President of Administration and Finance/Chief Financial Officer (CFO) on policies, procedures, and priorities for Information Technology (IT) at San Francisco State University. The goal of Technology Governance is to support and maximize optimal use of IT to achieve the University’s mission, support the community members, and fulfill campus strategic priorities.  The Technology Governance objectives are to: 

  • Recommend the University’s long-range technology strategy and goals to the Cabinet: 

    • Develops criteria for IT projects that will be reviewed within the IT Governance structure. Criteria will ensure alignment with: 

      • University and divisional strategic planning 

      • Resource availability 

      • Leadership readiness and support for change 

    • Establishes common framework and processes for review of IT investment proposals 

    • Develops metrics to measure project progress and health 

    • Considerations of feedback from governance subcommittees  

    • Prioritize large-scale University technology projects 

  • Promote positive technology engagements for students, faculty, and staff  

  • Approve changes in policies, standards, and procedures impacting information technology and information security 

  • Approve major or impactful changes in the delivery of technology solutions and services  

  • Understand initiatives proposed and/or mandated by the Chancellor’s office, which may result in dissemination for in-depth review and analysis to appropriate subcommittee 

  • Conduct reviews of the University’s technology project portfolio and monitors its alignment with University goals, available resources, and acceptable levels of risk 

Composition/Membership

The committee is sponsored by the Provost and the CFO. Committee membership is comprised of leadership within campus academic and business divisions as well as representatives from staff and the Associated Student President. Academic Technology and Information Technology Services leadership are Ex Officio members. 

Meetings

Meetings are held monthly or as needed. Agendas and supporting documentation are provided to committee members in advance to any regularly scheduled meeting.  

Policy Responsibility

The Technology Governance Committee is responsible for approving changes in policies, standards, and procedures pertaining to information technology and information security which also includes adopting frameworks and guidelines that maintain an effective distribution of responsibilities for all enterprise and local technology service providers.