IT Deserves a Seat at the Top Table

IT needs to be a part of your business strategy and therefore deserves to be represented in the boardroom.

The biggest mistake that most managing directors of small businesses make is thinking that IT is separate from your wider business strategy.

 

And it’s understandable why you think it is.

 

In the vast realm of business advice, the common wisdom emphasises hiring the right talent, crafting a compelling brand, mapping out your customer’s journey, and maintaining a sharp focus on lead generation, nurturing, and conversion rates.

Undoubtedly, these factors are crucial for a successful business. However, there’s a key component often overlooked – how IT fits into your strategy.

 

Consider this scenario: if you’re the founder of a manufacturing business, would you ever think of excluding the person in charge of your supply chain and production line from your boardroom discussions?

 

Probably not. Why?

 

Well, because without a smoothly functioning supply chain and production lines, your business would lack a product, and subsequently, a reason to exist. It would be nothing short of irresponsible to omit from your ‘top table’ discussions the individuals responsible for this mission-critical aspect of your business.

 

So, here’s the question: how is this any different to having poorly, or even worse, unmanaged IT?

If you’re the founder of a professional services business, your IT systems are your production line.

When your systems crawl at a snail’s pace, frequently decide to take an unscheduled break, or your staff struggles to access the right files efficiently, it’s not just an inconvenience. It sparks friction, disengagement, and a noticeable dip in productivity – all potential threats to your revenue.

And this is only referring to the operational aspect of IT. If there are issues with the operational side, then there almost certainly will be issues with the strategic element.

 

Aligning IT with your business strategy is about ensuring your systems can manage increased workload and can scale alongside your growth objectives, while also staying within budget.

Then there’s the pressing matter of cybersecurity.

Technology, cybersecurity, and IT budgets are not mere technical matters; they’re strategic decisions that business directors, must grapple with to stay legally compliant and safeguard their company’s future.

 

At the board level, IT is more than just a support function; it’s a critical pillar that underpins your business’s success and longevity.

So, how you can elevate IT to a strategic partner that drives innovation, supports growth, and safeguards your business from the ever-evolving digital landscape?

 

How do you integrate IT seamlessly into your broader business strategy?

 

One of the best options is to consider working with a seasoned and trusted technology partner.

This alliance opens the door to tailored technology advice, crucial for supporting your strategic planning.

 

Enlisting the support of a trusted technology partner often proves more cost-effective than hiring a full-time staff member. To do this correctly, you would require an IT director because an IT manager will lack the strategic training necessary for applying IT in a broader business context.

And hiring an IT director will not make financial sense for a small business, so bringing in a third-party IT partner is a much better choice.

 

So, here’s the crux—do you genuinely want to persist in sidelining IT from your strategic planning? Or is it time to craft a business strategy that embraces ALL your mission-critical elements?

 

If you are stuck wondering about whether you have an adequate IT function that is strategically aligned with your business goals, then click here OR the image below to take our free IT audit assessment.