Why is COBIT 5 considered to be an integrated framework?

COBIT 5 is considered a single, integrated framework primarily because it serves as an overarching governance and management framework that aligns with and integrates other relevant standards and good practices (e.g., ITIL, ISO/IEC 27001, TOGAF, PMBOK). This integration allows an enterprise to use COBIT 5 as the main umbrella framework, preventing the need to manage multiple, often overlapping, IT-related frameworks. This is a core aspect of COBIT 5 Principle 5, "Applying a Single Integrated Framework".

A. Integrating enterprise and IT goals is a key feature (the goals cascade) but is a result of Principle 1, "Meeting Stakeholder Needs," not the primary reason it's called "integrated."
B. While COBIT 5 is adaptable, the term "integrated framework" specifically refers to its relationship with other standards, not its universal applicability to any governance system.
C. Integrating IT goals with enablers is part of the framework's internal logic and structure, but the "integrated" label emphasizes its external alignment with other standards.

1. ISACA, COBIT 5: A Business Framework for the Governance and Management of Enterprise IT, 2012, Page 11, Section 3.5, "Principle 5. Applying a Single Integrated Framework".

2. ISACA, COBIT 5: A Business Framework for the Governance and Management of Enterprise IT, 2012, Page 25, Figure 8, "COBIT 5 Is an Integrated Framework".