| | AUGUST 201919CIOReviewBy Dave Goff, Ex Senior VP & CIO, ECMC GroupIT, as a business function, supports multiple business units, each with its own opportunities and challenges. Perhaps the greatest challenge, though, is establishing IT as a strong partner that delivers the greatest outcomes and benefits, while at the same time being connected to, valued by and appreciated by business partners and the entire organization.One way to address this challenge is to create a partnership between individual functions and the IT team by developing ongoing dialogue to build rapport and trust. Start by identifying the key people within each business unit who can affect positive change. Personal experience has shown that it's not always the highest-ranking person in the business, but often the one or two people within a team who can link strategy, prioritization, resource allocation, timing, and decision making. Working in conjunction with IT, that individual should understand and be able to clearly articulate what success looks like for his/her group.A Shared Definition of SuccessBusiness units are accustomed to driving toward specific objectives or outcomes--typically metrics that focus on customer outcomes and satisfaction. IT organizations place a great deal of pride on using attainable schedules and budgets to contribute to the business objectives. High-performing IT organizations aspire to make a meaningful difference and see a direct correlation between their efforts and the company's success. Once the business unit and IT teams agree on what success looks like and have earned each other's trust, the next step is to continue the open dialogue and discuss how to improve the organization's prioritization and execution of technology projects.Admittedly, this is easier said than done--leaders change, businesses evolve, market conditions shift and priorities compete with each other. Within this ever-changing landscape, a healthy dose of empathy, listening, transparency, and sincerity can help ensure that these DELIVERING THE GREATEST IT OUTCOMES
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