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KHALED ALSHAMI , DIRECTOR , SOLUTION CONSULTING , MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA , INFOR
EDITOR ’ S QUESTION
We have seen two extremes as some companies realised early on that they were in the eye of the digital storm and redefined their strategy . This enabled them to seize opportunities to develop new services and work with customers and businesses that are embracing digital . On the other hand , organisations that were rigid and failed to adapt , are now struggling , similar to Kodak and Blackberry who left their throne because they failed to notice and act when the dynamics of the market were changing .
Customers and businesses today are more focused on technologies that can help streamline processes , enabling them to do more with less , while improving customer experience , boosting productivity and quality .
The role of the CIO is changing in nature : Once the guard of infrastructure , network and information systems , CIOs are now more likely to be transformation evangelists – with a long term vision and an ability to strategise with the CEO of the business on the markets they want to be in , the services they want to offer and the brand they want to develop .
This role requires CIOs to be constantly aware of what is going on in the technological universe . They must drive pilot projects and minimal viable deployments to see , feel and live the experience with new and disruptive technologies . For example : everyone these days is talking about AI and Machine Learning . What matters is the use case and how using AI or Machine Learning can drive efficiency in supply chains or boost productivity or customer experience .
Let us look at the United Arab Emirates , which has a Minister for AI , a Minister for Possibilities and a government that is driving a shift from satisfaction to happiness in every service the government
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ENTERPRISES CAN ALSO CONSIDER ALIGNING WITH A NON- TRADITIONAL , DIGITALLY SAVVY BUSINESS PARTNER THAT IS KEEN ON DRIVING DIGITAL SUCCESS STORIES AND IS FOCUSED ON BUSINESS OUTCOMES .
offers . This is driving the overall economy to become smart , lean and consumer centric . This is fascinating and represents a ‘ lead by example ’ model for the private sector , which is now adapting and transforming to keep with pace with the government .
Enterprises need to define a clear strategy and objectives , and should consider calling champions from within the business to lead this management of change . Enterprises can also consider aligning with a non-traditional , digitally savvy business partner that is keen on driving digital success stories and is focused on business outcomes .
Tele-healthcare is a good example of how disruptive technology can touch and transform lives . We have also started to see smart transportation coming into the picture , with connected cars entering the fray and giving crucial feedback on road conditions and traffic , while also feeding data back to help improve road management . The retail industry is also undergoing transformation , with big retailers making use of AI and Machine Learning to analyse and profile customers based on footfall and purchasing behaviour . This helps retailers tailor their promotions toward the needs of individual customers .
Unfortunately , there is no structured programme or curriculum to have the perfect CIO profile . This is simply because the reimagined CIO role is dynamic : He or she will be business-focused , digital advocates and innovative in nature . They have no fear of change but they are structured and have a clear methodology on how to embrace and manage change . • www . intelligentcio . com INTELLIGENTCIO
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