CIO: Rebrand the IT Function

Let’s face it. The IT industry has a brand problem. How can we be the drivers of innovation when users think of IT in terms of late system delivery and the ‘turn it off turn it on’ service ethic (/mantra).

So what can you do?

• Step 1- Rename the department
• Eg. Information services, innovation centre. Don’t mention technology
• Step 2 – Increase the visibility of the good stuff you do
• Eg. Produce a regular newsletter. Don’t email it
• Step 3 – Deliver the basics well.

Perhaps step three should be step one? My view is that the IT staff are more likely to deliver the basics well if they first feel part of something strategically meaningful.

I forgot:

• Step 4 – Make the case to be part of the business leadership team.