Corporate Governance and Management Control Effectiveness: A Review of Challenges and Strategic Directions

Abstract

This structured literature review explores the role of corporate governance in enhancing the effectiveness of management control systems (MCS), with a particular focus on the emerging challenges and strategic directions in implementation. Drawing on peer-reviewed publications from 2020 to 2025, the study synthesizes four critical themes: (1) the functional role of governance in MCS design, (2) multidimensional indicators of control system effectiveness, (3) barriers to governance-aligned MCS implementation, and (4) strategic responses to contemporary governance demands. The review reveals that corporate governance improves MCS by reinforcing transparency, accountability, risk mitigation, and stakeholder engagement, particularly when supported by internal audit, board independence, and digital capabilities. It also highlights emerging concerns such as cybersecurity, remote work productivity, technological adaptation, and employee well-being. Theoretically, this study contributes by integrating control systems theory with digital governance and behavioral insights; practically, it offers guidance for designing responsive, ethical, and performance-driven control architectures. Limitations include the reliance on secondary sources and the lack of empirical generalization, prompting future research to investigate causal mechanisms through mixed-methods approaches