Exploring the relationship between IT Alignment and Digital Transformation: a systematic literature review

This paper seeks to review and synthesize the literature that investigates the relationship between strategic IT alignment and organizational digital transformation published between 2015 and 2025, using the PRISMA 2020 methodology. Analysis indicates that these two concepts are highly interdependent. IT alignment acts as both a precursor and a facilitator in successful digital transformation processes, while the chance of success is highly dependent on the prevailing IT governance maturity in an organization. This dynamic relationship calls for continuous adaptation since different organizational contexts critically affect the outcomes. Although there is meaningful insight from established theoretical frameworks, substantial research gaps can be identified. These findings therefore indicate further longitudinal studies that are sector-specific in enhancing understanding. To practitioners, resultant insights underline the critical need to develop coherent, integrated strategies where the use of digital transformation initiatives secures continued competitive advantage. An organization should, hence, align investments in technology with business objectives but with strong governance structures in place to ensure the effectiveness of transformation and long-term value creation within organizations.