While planning this issue’s feature on change management and the growing influence of CIOs in the process, I was reminded of a quote from The Prince – the political treatise by Italian philosopher Niccolo Machiavelli: “There is nothing more difficult to take in hand, more perilous to conduct, or more uncertain in its success, than to take the lead in the introduction of a new order of things.”

The quote has a deep connotation. One thing that we generally don’t accept with ease is change. Despite knowing that it is inevitable, change is something (in the words of Peter Drucker) which people would like to postpone as much as they can. But, is it really wise to do so? Introducing change can cause havoc, but it is also true that without it, one remains inert.

The biggest issue here is whether a CIO can take that plunge and lead all the way.

I feel this is an exceptional opportunity for CIOs to take lead and become the key drivers to affect change, and reform the way business is done. The CIO can act as a leader, driver, coach or a facilitator; depending on what kind of changes are required in an organisation.

Some of you would argue; why a CIO? A few others would say that a CIO, in today’s corporate set-up, isn’t well-equipped to influence the process of change and drive home the desired outcomes. While these apprehensions hold merit, the tangible value brought on to the table by you, as a CIO, is tremendous. As a CIO you bring a unique perspective to change management because of your knowledge of IT and its management. Who could be better equipped than you, to know how technology can be used to support the process of change?

But, before you move an inch ahead, take precautions. It not only requires a great amount of perseverance to initiate and implement change, but calls for a lot of restraints. Before embarking upon this journey, you need to be clear about the do’s and don’ts (Read ‘Effective Ways of Managing Change: Do’s and Don’ts). Focus where pain is worth the gain (Susan Cramm’s Blog Post). Brief case studies on two of India’s largest business conglomerates namely, Vodafone and GE Capital, will also help you in knowing how CIOs led change management.

I am sure you will find the information worth your time. As ever, I would request for your feedback to help us become more relevant.  

rahul.mani@9dot9.in