Abstract-Most frameworks for planning of Information
Technology (IT) projects are based on functional models of the
organization, where investments are justified based on rate of
return analysis comparing an existing, manual process with an
automated substitute. The Malcolm Baldridge National Quality
Award (MBNQA) is considered herein as the basis for a
strategic approach to IT planning. The benefits and
shortcomings of this approach are discussed. The lack of
consideration for the protection of intellectual property is
identified as a key shortcoming, not only in the context of IT
planning, but also in the broader context of MBNQA as a
business assessment tool.