What is it?
A strategic Information Technology (IT) map, also called a tech roadmap, is a visual navigational tool that depicts how technology will play into the strategic future of an organization. The roadmap usually represents the next 3-5 years of overarching business goals broken down by how IT will support those strategies. Chief Information Officers (or CIO‘s) greatly benefit from from these tools because they ensure that the technological goals of the organization remain in line and in support of the business goals. Ultimately, it ensures effective collaboration throughout the entire company.
Integral Pieces
The strategic IT map can be broken down into several pieces allowing it to be utilized effectively. Those piece may include (a):
Statement – A list of strategic priorities of the business. Outline them and allow for them to be interpreted.
Project Timeline – An outline of the ideal timeline for each project and initiative, with the appropriate start and end dates. Also includes the duration of the project along with the size.
List of Improvements – A prioritized list that is regularly reexamined and refreshed. This will allows the company to stay updated and informed.
Broad Views – A summary of each project from a broad vantage point, without too much detail.
Cost Breakdown – A disassembled breakdown of the cost of each project that allows for it to be interpreted effectively.
Project Owners – A list of which projects are being delegated to which specific individuals for improvements occurring within the next 12 months.
Why Use a Strategic IT Map? Here are 3 Reasons.
Empowerment
Having a strategic IT map will empower technology leaders to create new priorities for the company and will allow them to communicate those ideas to other management figures within the organization. With a visual roadmap, other management figures can visualize projects and aid in the process of funding and investing.
Improvement
The strategic IT map will allow the IT department to anticipate new improvements and plan according to the timeline. This means ordering new parts and machines to further grow the technological interests of the company. The IT map can also prep other workers within the organization for those changes by showing specific dates for updates and improvements, minimizing the interruption of daily operations.
Encouragement
Having a strategic IT map can assure that everyone within the company is aligned and on the same page. Having knowledge on the direction of the company can improve employee morale and aid in the adoption process of new features.
Final Thoughts
Development and growth is something that the business as a whole needs to be a part of. Having specific strategy and tailored objectives is a great thing, but if everyone isn’t on the same page, then what’s it really worth? Using a strategic IT map will allow everyone within the company to be informed, empowered, and encouraged on the technological future of the company and how it matters to them strategically.