The chameleon: a metaphor for the Chief Information Officer

Abstract

The role of CIO has been around for a little more than 20 years. In that time it has evolved significantly. Much has been written about the specific challenges faced by incumbents, describing the characteristics needed to be a business-focused executive leading a technology-intensive function. One aspect that has not been given enough consideration is that, because of the specific nature of role and use of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in organisations and the different strategic and tactical issues faced by a CIO, the most needed characteristics may vary according to time and circumstance. Eight specific challenges that make the role difficult are identified and different perspectives on the competencies needed are reviewed. This paper, through literature review and discussion, examines the specific challenges faced by ICT leaders and suggests that a range of personal characteristics are needed for long term success and that these can be compared to key features of the humble chameleon: 1. The ability to change 2. The ability to see in multiple directions 3. The ability to strike fast when required, and 4. The ability to hang on when the going gets tough!