In this paper we make a first attempt at examining the role of an ICT project?s main trigger on the nature of the feasibility study. More specifically, the impact of the trigger on the prioritization, selection and evaluation of an ICT investment project is studied. A better insight into this relationship contributes to the improvement of ICT governance.

In total, 12 large ICT projects within the bank and insurance industry were examined, using a grounded theory approach. 45 stakeholders were interviewed and project documentation was inspected.

Our results clearly demonstrate that an ICT project?s main trigger functions as a moderating variable in the feasibility process, that is, it has an impact on the nature of the selection and the justification process. Hence, the trigger influences the thoroughness of both on the evaluation of the acceptability of a project and the assessment of the priorities between proposed projects.