Every CIO can immediately think back to an instance when they had technology projects that failed due to vendor complications. Despite these difficulties, Thomas Wailgum brings up an interesting point and very debatable topic in his article “Are CIOs Too Cozy with their Technology Vendors?”Why do CIOs refuse to voice their displeasure when given the opportunity? Wailgum surmises with the constant frustration and lack of appreciation they receive from their vendors they should feel compelled to do something about it. When it comes down to it though, in most cases, CIOs refuse to name specific vendors like Oracle, IBM, or Microsoft or offer honest assessments of their products in a public forum.
CIOs need to remember that they are the consumers in the relationship, therefore they hold the power, says Wailgum. He wonders if, in today’s smothering atmosphere of political correctness, CIOs are just relaying what their PR people script for them. This just should not be the case. In fact CIOs have more choices today than ever before, strengthening their already solid consumer position.
For example, cloud computing has created a plethora of business computing options. Unfortunately, according to Wailgum, they are not taking advantage of their position and this is a disappointment. With that kind of force in the market, CIOs should be on the offensive, pressuring their vendors to improve their technology and correct any errors in a timely manner or else.
To read Thomas Wailgum’s article, “Are CIOs Too Cozy with their Technology Vendors?,” in its entirety please click HERE.
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