Let's start with strategy. It used to be enough for the IT leader to keep the server lights on, deliver a strategic project every two or three years, and generally just keep the business operational. This passive approach is no longer an option. Today's economy requires competitive differentiation and innovation in order to propel a company forward. While those game changing strategies do not have to originate within IT, it is certainly clear that IT must be at the table when these strategies are developed. An imperative for the IT leader must be a strong and well-articulated vision with the ability to execute.
Those of us in the IT profession have earned a reputation for providing solutions that keep the lights on and often proposing technology for the sake of technology, - “cool projects” do not necessarily propel the business forward. It's time to give the routine tactical workload to someone else, and put your mind to solving the bigger questions that will allow your organization to innovate and grow in challenging times by leveraging your knowledge, skills and experience.
