It is no secret that as we approach the age of retirement for the baby boomer generation, we are facing a succession crisis, with significantly fewer experienced professionals lining up to take the soon to be vacated senior positions across all disciplines.
Whilst this poses challenges for all C-suite roles, if we focus in on the role of CIO specifically, the issue becomes yet more complicated.
In the age of digital disruption and transformation, the retirement of a CIO could mean the loss of a huge amount of knowledge and expertise in a role that has changed significantly in the last decade. Specifically, their expertise in dealing with older technological platforms and digital systems that are approaching obsolescence is something a successor is not guaranteed to have.
However, businesses that are aware of the issue can avoid a potential digital crisis by preparing for this change whilst the current CIO is still in position.
Obsolete Technologies
Many organisations still operate using old and outdated technologies that can be complicated and expensive to maintain, a problem that will only increase with time. Carry out a technology audit within your organisation to identify obsolete technologies and aim to update and replace these ahead of a new CIO joining your business.
Assess IT Support
Many older technology platforms are complicated to use, and can require expert knowledge meaning that the IT team spends time on basic business tasks such as collating reports and dashboards. Updating to a more user-friendly system means that all staff can easily carry out tasks, freeing up the IT team to focus on the nuts and bolts of digital transformation.
Consider the Cloud
Hosting all your IT systems on site is resource intensive, both financial and personnel. With the future firmly focused on cloud hosting, start your migration to the cloud now, and consider the benefits of outsourcing functions such as server maintenance, security software, OS upgrades, datacenters, etc. that are much more cost effective than they were previously.
Simplify IT Infrastructure
The process of simplifying IT infrastructure is often viewed as a ‘nice to have’ rather than a ‘must have’, however the simple fact is an unwieldy IT system and cluttered infrastructure will only hinder the digital transformation process. Start simplifying your IT infrastructure today to create an environment that will enable digital transformation and create a strong platform for a new CIO to build on.
To discuss your digital transformation and change succession planning, contact [email protected].
