Date of Conferral

2018

Degree

Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)

School

Business Administration

Advisor

Jaime J. Klein

Abstract

Every year, several documented data breaches happen in the United States, resulting in the exposure of millions of electronic records. The purpose of this single-case study was to explore strategies some information technology managers used to monitor employees and reduce internal theft and loss. The population for this study consisted of 5 information technology managers who work within the field of technology in the southwestern region of the United States. Participants were selected using purposeful sampling. The conceptual framework for this study included elements from information and communication boundary theories. Data were collected from semistructured interviews, company standard operating procedures, and policy memorandums, which provided detailed information about technology managers' experiences with data security. The collected data were transcribed, member checked, and triangulated to validate credibility and trustworthiness. Two themes emerged from data analysis: the development of policies, procedures, and standards on internal theft and loss, and the use of technology-driven systems to monitor employees and control theft and loss. Technology-based interventions allow leaders within an organization to protect the integrity of systems and networks while monitoring employee actions and behaviors. Study findings could be used by leaders of business organizations to identify and respond to theft and fraud in the workplace. Business leaders may also be able to use study findings to develop employee monitoring programs that help to prevent the loss of both organizational and customers' data, enhancing public trust as a potential implication for positive social change.

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