COBIT
IT governance framework aligning strategy, risk, and value creation
ISO 20000
International standard for service management systems
Quick Verdict
COBIT provides comprehensive I&T governance frameworks for enterprises worldwide, while ISO 20000 delivers certifiable service management systems. Organizations adopt COBIT for strategic alignment and risk management; ISO 20000 for proven service delivery and customer assurance.
COBIT
COBIT 2019 Governance and Management Objectives
Key Features
- Tailors governance via 11 design factors and workflow
- 40 objectives across 5 domains (EDM, APO, BAI, DSS, MEA)
- CMMI-based capability levels 0-5 for performance management
- Separates governance (EDM) from management responsibilities
- Goals cascade links stakeholder needs to metrics
ISO 20000
ISO/IEC 20000-1:2018 Service management system requirements
Key Features
- Annex SL structure for ISO integration
- End-to-end service lifecycle controls
- PDCA-based continual improvement
- Top management leadership requirements
- Multi-supplier lifecycle governance
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
COBIT Details
What It Is
COBIT 2019 is an IT governance and management framework by ISACA for enterprise I&T. It translates stakeholder needs into actionable objectives via a tailored governance system approach, emphasizing value creation, risk optimization, and resource use across the enterprise.
Key Components
- 40 governance/management objectives in 5 domains: EDM, APO, BAI, DSS, MEA.
- 6 governance system principles and 7 components (processes, structures, etc.).
- 11 design factors for tailoring; CMMI-based 0-5 capability levels.
- No formal certification; uses assessments and assurance via MEA04.
Why Organizations Use It
Drives strategic alignment, compliance (SOX, GDPR mappings), risk reduction, and audit readiness. Builds board trust through measurable outcomes, supports digital transformation, and integrates with ISO 27001/ITIL for efficiency.
Implementation Overview
Phased: assess gaps, design via toolkit, pilot objectives, build capabilities, monitor via MEA. Suits medium-large enterprises globally; requires training (Foundation/Design certs), no mandatory audits.
ISO 20000 Details
What It Is
ISO/IEC 20000-1:2018 is the international certifiable standard for establishing and maintaining a service management system (SMS). It provides auditable requirements for managing the full service lifecycle—planning, design, transition, delivery, and improvement—to ensure consistent service quality. Built on Annex SL high-level structure (HLS) and PDCA cycle, it emphasizes risk-based thinking and flexibility in implementation.
Key Components
- Clauses 4–10 cover context, leadership, planning, support, operation, performance evaluation, and improvement.
- Clause 8 details operational domains: service portfolio, relationships, supply/demand, design/transition, resolution/fulfilment, assurance.
- Core processes include incident/problem management, change/release, configuration/asset, availability/continuity, security.
- Certifiable via accredited bodies with Stage 1/2 audits, surveillance, recertification.
Why Organizations Use It
- Drives operational efficiency, risk reduction, customer trust (e.g., 69% report inspired trust).
- Enables market differentiation, procurement advantages, integration with ISO 9001/27001.
- Supports compliance in regulated sectors, multi-supplier ecosystems.
Implementation Overview
Phased approach: gap analysis, SMS design, process deployment, audits. Applies to all sizes/industries; 12-18 months typical for certification.
Key Differences
| Aspect | COBIT | ISO 20000 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Enterprise I&T governance and management | Service management system and delivery |
| Industry | All industries, enterprise-wide | Service providers, all sizes/industries |
| Nature | Voluntary governance framework | Certifiable management system standard |
| Testing | Capability/maturity assessments (0-5) | Stage 1/2 audits, surveillance audits |
| Penalties | No legal penalties | Loss of certification |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about COBIT and ISO 20000
COBIT FAQ
ISO 20000 FAQ
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