In a bid to find success in a changing insurance landscape, CIOs have become familiar with investing in new technologies and core system replacements. However, they may want to consider investing in something closer to home—relationship-building between business and IT. Authentic business and IT alignment requires special attention to be paid towards creating a culture of open communication and clarity. Maintaining business and IT alignment is an ongoing commitment and requires full investment starting at the leadership level.
True business and IT alignment can only be founded upon a preexisting culture of mutual respect and teamwork. Developing a shared purpose, strengthening interpersonal relationships between business and IT (i.e., through company-wide networking events and lunch-and-learn meetings), and celebrating well-deserved triumphs go a long way towards bridging the gap between business and IT.
Impactful and effective communication begins at the top; IT leaders should consider adding discussions around communication to their agendas for meetings with business teams. Clarity is key; clearly enumerated roles, messages, and purposes can enable employees to focus on what matters. A common language based on business value metrics also proves invaluable during business and IT meetings.
An aligned business and IT community benefits everyone, from the individual to the organizational level. A culture of teamwork and mutual respect across departments is a key ingredient to enterprise-wide success. For more on this, see our recent brief, Maintaining Business/IT Alignment in Insurance.
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