Nature of Information Technology Managerial Work: The Work Life of Five Chief Information Officers

The information technology manager's role has changed significantly over the past decade. The performance of an organization is increasingly dependent on the performance of the information technology unit and its top executive. Here the author offers a fly on the wall view of the executive level activities of five Chief Information Officers (CIOs), operating in different industries. Profiles of these CIOs provide valuable insights into the strategic impact of this new role. Profiles of these CIOs, developed from over 200 hours of direct observation, provide valuable insights into the strategic impact of this new role. Other CIOs, executives, information technology researchers, information technology students in upper level or graduate courses, managers of technology and innovation, systems managers, and those interested in organizational behavior will all gain a greater understanding of the CIO's critical role within today's organizations.

The day-to-day work habits of each CIO are observed for one work week, including meetings, mail, phone calls, and travel. The CIOs represent five distinct industries: utilities, manufacturing, government agency, insurance, and university. Despite very different work cultures, all demonstrate a remarkable ability to think on their feet and remain detached from highly charged turf battles. These high tech executives have the playwright's high touch; they are keenly aware of the power of figurative language and the timing of events.