As companies continue to embrace hybrid work models, chief information officers will need to focus on making sure in-person and remote employees can work together easily.
That was one of several recommendations in Info-Tech Research Group’s CIO Priorities 2022 report.
The report, done with insights and case study from experts from Harvard Business School, Cross Country Mortgage, Allianz Technology, CVS Health and others, highlights the challenges information officers face as employers continue to grapple with how to get the job done in the pandemic.
“CIOs bear a greater burden than ever after the pandemic," said Brian Jackson, research director for Info-Tech and lead analyst on the report. "They've facilitated new remote work scenarios and now must adapt to a hybrid operating model. Talent is at an all-time premium, so staff retention is crucial, and there's more pressure to automate more tasks."
Info-Tech identified five areas of importance for CIOs in 2022, including reducing friction in hybrid work models.
As the pandemic continues, companies will need work models that cater to both in-person and remote workers.
The number two priority outlined in the report is making sure companies are as ready as ever for ransomware attacks. While cybersecurity is always a top priority for CIOs, Info-Tech says they can’t ignore this area as they focus on other tasks.
CIOs can also help their employers retain employees and not become hampered by “The Great Recession.”
Information officers can play a role in retention by looking for innovative ways to work and for professional development opportunities. Both of these strategies can help employees feel more engaged.
A fourth priority is to automate tasks, whether that be by building a platform or buying one.
And finally, CIOs should be prepared to provide insights on Environment, Social and Government metrics, or ESG.
Investors, lawmakers and regulators are increasingly requiring companies to have ESG goals, and CIOs should be prepared to help guide their employers toward those goals.
