UPDATE: CIOs are under increasing pressure to not only enable but also demonstrate business value, according to insights shared by leading IT experts in a recent discussion. This urgent need comes as organizations grapple with challenges like shadow IT and the underutilization of technology, which hinder their full potential.
In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, Michael Ringman, CTO of Ibex, emphasized the necessity for CIOs to forge strong business relationships. “Understanding shadow IT isn’t a negative; it’s an opportunity,” he explained, highlighting how recognizing these systems can reveal engagement gaps between IT and the business. This approach allows for increased successful project outcomes through smaller, agile investments.
Scott Weller, CTO of EnFi, also stressed the critical role of change management as businesses undergo digital transformations. “IT is now required to measure efficiencies and revenue during projects,” he stated, underscoring the importance of aligning technology evaluations with business needs.
Weller’s insights reveal that companies thriving in AI transformation embed technologists within business units, fostering a collaborative environment. “Successful AI projects don’t rely on councils; they incorporate AI expertise directly into teams,” he noted. This shift toward a more integrated approach is fundamental for organizations seeking strategic impact.
Dmytro Voloshyn, CTO at Preply, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the value of quantifying technology impact. During a recent project with OpenAI, Voloshyn’s team calculated productivity gains from new AI tools, enabling them to forecast significant cost savings. “The key is to discuss project costs and value without delving into technical jargon,” he advised, highlighting the importance of a shared language between IT and business leaders.
The experts agree that the landscape for CIOs is fraught with external pressures, from vendor selection to regulatory changes. In this chaotic environment, data-driven decision-making emerges as a vital tool for demonstrating value. Voloshyn pointed out that maintaining operational effectiveness while being strategically agile is essential, especially as organizations navigate the complexities introduced by AI.
As these discussions unfold, the path forward for CIOs involves not just adapting to new technologies but also nurturing human connections within their organizations. “With increasing automation, the human element will become even more crucial,” Voloshyn concluded.
As companies look to the future, the integration of IT and business strategy will be paramount. CIOs are urged to rethink their roles, leveraging collaborative relationships and agile methodologies to drive measurable business outcomes. This ongoing transformation is critical as organizations strive to stay competitive in an ever-changing marketplace.
Stay tuned for further updates on how CIOs are reshaping their strategies to meet the demands of today’s business environment.
