Shout Fire!

If you are a CIO try this little exercise. Pick a random time in the working day and set off the fire alarm. Create a sense of urgency so that your people stop what they are doing and promptly leave the building.

The next stage needs to be done quickly, not least because of screen lock time outs.

Swiftly wander around monitoring what is open on your staff's desks and desktops.

• The percentage of your staff who appear to be involved in client related activities is a measure of your strategic relevance.
• The percentage of staff involved in user related issues gives you an indication of your operational relevance.
• The percentage of staff involved in neither should be a key measure of your likelihood of a solemn conversation with your HR function followed by a series of needy communications with disinterested headhunters.