COBIT
Framework for enterprise IT governance and management
SQF
GFSI-benchmarked standard for food safety certification
Quick Verdict
COBIT provides IT governance frameworks for enterprises worldwide, while SQF delivers GFSI-benchmarked food safety certification for manufacturing. Companies adopt COBIT for risk-optimized IT value; SQF for retailer-required supply chain compliance and recall prevention.
COBIT
COBIT 2019: Governance and Management Objectives
Key Features
- 11 design factors enable tailored governance systems
- 40 objectives across 5 domains for EGIT coverage
- CMMI-based capability levels 0-5 for assessments
- Distinct separation of governance from management
- Goals cascade links strategy to performance metrics
SQF
Safe Quality Food (SQF) Code Edition 9
Key Features
- Modular: Module 2 system elements + sector GMPs
- HACCP-based Food Safety Plan with validation
- GFSI-benchmarked for global retailer recognition
- Designated full-time SQF Practitioner role
- Graded audits with unannounced verification
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
COBIT Details
What It Is
COBIT 2019 is ISACA's comprehensive framework for enterprise governance and management of information and technology (EGIT). It translates stakeholder needs into actionable objectives using a tailored, risk-optimized approach across the enterprise.
Key Components
- 40 governance and management objectives grouped into 5 domains: EDM (governance), APO, BAI, DSS, MEA (monitoring/assurance).
- 6 governance system principles and 11 design factors for customization.
- 7 components (processes, structures, culture, etc.).
- CMMI-based performance management (levels 0-5); goals cascade for alignment.
Why Organizations Use It
- Aligns I&T with business value, optimizes resources, manages risks.
- Supports compliance (SOX, GDPR alignments), audit readiness via MEA04.
- Builds stakeholder trust, enables digital transformation, provides competitive edge through measurable maturity.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: assess gaps, design via toolkit, pilot priorities, measure capabilities.
- Applies to enterprises of all sizes/industries; voluntary with ISACA training/certificates. (178 words)
SQF Details
What It Is
Safe Quality Food (SQF) is a GFSI-benchmarked certification program and HACCP-based management system for ensuring food safety and quality across the supply chain. Its primary purpose is to verify preventive controls from farm to fork, using a risk-based, modular approach with Codex/NACMCF HACCP principles.
Key Components
- **Modular structureUniversal Module 2 (System Elements) paired with sector-specific GMP/GAP modules (e.g., Module 11 for manufacturing).
- Core elements: Management commitment, HACCP Food Safety Plan, PRPs, verification/validation, traceability, food defense, allergens, training.
- Built on "say what you do, do what you say, prove it" philosophy; audited via graded nonconformities (E/G/C/F scores).
Why Organizations Use It
- Meets retailer/brand requirements as a "license to trade".
- Reduces audits, recalls, and risks; aligns with FSMA/EU regs.
- Builds trust, efficiency, resilience; enables market access.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: Gap analysis, documentation, training, internal audits, certification audit.
- Applies to manufacturers, storage, etc.; annual audits with unannounced; SQF Practitioner required. (178 words)
Key Differences
| Aspect | COBIT | SQF |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Enterprise IT governance and management | Food safety and quality management systems |
| Industry | All industries, enterprise-wide IT | Food manufacturing, processing, supply chain |
| Nature | Voluntary governance framework | GFSI-benchmarked certification standard |
| Testing | Capability assessments, internal audits | Annual third-party certification audits |
| Penalties | No legal penalties, loss of maturity | No legal penalties, loss of certification |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about COBIT and SQF
COBIT FAQ
SQF FAQ
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