CIO and CIO Responsibilities

Role of the CIO Is Evolving

• Quotable quote:
“It is no longer useful or meaningful to talk about
the ‘role of the CIO.’ ”
– Barb Gomolski, senior research director, Gartner, Nov. 27, 2000 1

• Rationale
• No single “one-size-fits-all” position description
• CIOs wear many hats; work in various roles
• Different types of CIOs
• CIOs are driven by background and interests
• Industry and organizational differences affect role
 Definition:
Chief Information Officer
• Job title is commonly given to the senior executive in charge of information
technology and computer systems that support an organization’s business
goals.

• As IT has become increasingly important, the CIO is typically viewed as a key

strategist within the organization.

• In many companies, the CIO reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer
(CEO). In some companies, the CIO sits on the Executive Board.

• Usually, a CIO proposes IT strategies to achieve business goals and works

within an established budget.

- SearchCIO.com Definitions 2
CIO Demographics

• 87% are male

• 70% moved up through the IT ranks
• 5 years, 9 months is average time as CIO
• 4 years, 6 months is average time in current job
• 40% report to CEO
• 85% are responsible for enterprise-wide IT
• 76% do not plan to outsource outside of U.S.

- Source: CIO Magazine 3

CIO’s Mission

“Help agencies maximize the value, quality and use of their

information resources.”
IF IT Works Right, A...

• CIO can facilitate integration of IT across multiple departments or

agencies
• CIO can facilitate timely adoption of new technology
• CIO can help ensure IT investments provide value
• CIO can help position IT as a strategic weapon
CIO Responsibilities

• Administration • Distance Learning

• Planning & Review • Internet Services
• Systems Development • Video Conferencing
• Consulting • Project Management &
• Data Center Oversight
• IT Training/Education • Legislative Agenda
• Marketing
CIO Attributes

• Imagination • Data bigot

• Leadership • Maintains network of
• Vision peers/stakeholders
• Strategic Thinking • Interpersonal skills
• Courage • Ability to navigate in a
complex organization
• Change agent
• Balanced—planning Vs.
• Understand issues
execution
• Fosters staff renewal
CIO Imperatives

• Willing to act!
• Can take the heat!
• It’s about people!
• It’s about relationships!
• It’s about focus!
• It’s about communication!
• It’s about value!
The Value Proposition:
Key questions

• How has IT contributed to the mission?

• lower agency cost?
• increased sources of revenue?
• improved customer/citizen service?
• How will IT support the agency mission in the next 6 -12 -18 - 24
months?