The role of a Chief Information Officer (CIO) is becoming increasingly essential to business operations. But finding a good one that fits your company’s specific needs and culture – not to mention your budget – can be challenging. So, what do you do? Do you make cuts to other departments to squeeze a CIO into the mix? Do you settle by hiring a lower-level position to keep the train moving? None of these are ideal. Thankfully, you don’t have to put yourself in that uncomfortable and potentially detrimental situation. If you’re asking those questions to yourself, it may be time to think about vCIO consulting.
What is a vCIO?
A vCIO is a virtual CIO. vCIOs are contractors or outsourced employees who have all the pedigree and experience of a CIO. Instead of settling into one company full-time, they come alongside businesses as needed to serve the same role as a formal CIO. They partner with your IT team to provide essential support and advice to harness your core technologies and plan for the future.
Why Would I Need One?
While your IT team is undoubtedly capable in many areas, having proper guidance can maximize the results from your technology investments. vCIOs can speak with authority and build strategies to better use the tools you already have. VCIO’s put focus on aligning your technology with the needs of your business and customers. This means less time trying to figure out how to better use your technology resources and more time focusing on your business goals.
How Do They Fit Into My Infrastructure?
It’s up to you! Once a vCIO familiarizes themselves with your company, they may have some ideas on how they think they could be used most appropriately. But in the end, this is your call—vCIOs work for you. You may choose to engage a vCIO regularly in your leadership meetings, or you may simply bring them in to consult when you have the need.
Think you’re ready to bring in a vCIO? ISOutsource offers vCIO consulting as a part of our flex sourcing services. We can help you and your IT better utilize your technology, guide you on where to invest next, and be your all-around IT resource. Give us a call today.