W. Frank Dell II, CMC

BrainTrust Query: Who Really Needs a CIO?

January 9, 2012

FROM RETAILWIRE:
As cloud computing introduces more alternatives to in-house solutions, the role of the internal IT department has changed as retailers have gone from building their own solutions to buying prepackaged software and services. More emphasis is being put on interpersonal skills, organizing and managing projects, and less on understanding the "magic behind the curtain." How is the role of the CIO changing in big retailer organizations?      [more...]

A CIO with an operational improvement perspective will always have an important role. Not unlike the CFO being more than the chief accountant. Larger firms should have their own analysis for package selection, where smaller firms should rely on consultants. Managing and securing the network will never go away. Providing users continued education and training would benefit many companies that are not getting the maximum out of their purchased software. A roll that should be added is one of data integrity. Companies should audit their data like they audit their inventory.