When did companies start giving IS departments the authority over IT infrastructure?

In the 1990s, there was a significant shift in how organizations managed their information technology resources, leading to Information Systems (IS) departments being granted greater authority over IT infrastructure. This period was characterized by rapid advancements in technology and an increasing recognition of the strategic importance of information technology in business operations. Companies began to realize that effective management of IT resources was crucial for maintaining competitiveness and efficiency.

The role of IS departments evolved from mere support to becoming integral to decision-making processes related to IT investments, infrastructure planning, and overall technology strategy. The increase in complexity of systems and the necessity for integration across various business functions reinforced the need for centralized management of IT resources. As a result, IS departments were empowered to oversee IT infrastructure, ensuring that technology aligned with organizational goals and effectively supported business objectives.

This trend was marked by the rise of the Internet, the proliferation of personal computing, and the beginning of enterprise-wide software solutions, which all necessitated a more cohesive and strategic approach to IT management. Thus, the 1990s stand out as the decade when IS departments began to take on a more authoritative and strategic role in managing IT infrastructure.