Technology is heavily integrated into most businesses today. Even if your company isn’t a “tech” company by nature, you have computers, tablets, smart phones, smart devices/appliances, cloud-based software, online databases, and more. 

As your business grows, it just seems to get more and more complex. In order to keep things in working order while maintaining security and standards, you need someone to manage it all. More than an IT lead, many companies require someone with executive level authority and vision to steer the technological ship, so to speak. 

This is where the Chief Information Officer, or CIO, comes into play. 

A CIO is someone who understands technology systems and has the capability of creating and implementing on-going strategy that aligns with your business’s own trajectory. This includes addressing both short and term needs while optimizing your current structure and improving efficiency. 

This also means accounting for potential risks and adjusting your resources accordingly.  

While it’s very beneficial to have someone in that role, many companies don’t have the financial capacity to hire a CIO. It’s typically not a cheap position to fill. Alternatively, some companies don’t quite have the need for someone to be in the role full-time. 

Rather than hiring someone they either don’t need or can’t afford, many businesses outsource their CIO responsibilities instead. By partnering with an experienced IT company, you can streamline your technology systems and receive the high-level support you require, all for an affordable price. 

You just need to make sure the company you partner with has the right capabilities. You’ll also want to have a proper understanding of what exactly you’re looking for. 

CIO or CTO – Which Role Do I Need? 

CIO is a title that sometimes gets grouped together with CTO. While both of these roles involve management, direction, and technology, there are some distinct differences. Additionally, the specifics of each role can vary between industries. 

Generally, the primary responsibility of a CTO is often infrastructure and internal IT operations. In addition to working with internal integration of technology, they also collaborate with external vendors involved with your infrastructure.  

A CIO, on the other hand, is often more business minded, overseeing technology in the way it interacts with customers and the company’s overarching strategy. They’re generally required to create innovative solutions and solve big-picture problems. 

While some IT companies are equipped to handle the infrastructure and management duties, they’re not always so savvy when it comes to business and strategy execution.  

At Expedient Technology Solutions, we have a great understanding of both IT and business. With our knowledge and experience combined, we’re well equipped to act as your virtual CIO or CTO, providing you with expert guidance without having to hire a high-level, full-time employee. 

It’s not just about providing advice or telling you what to do. It’s about solving problems and developing strategy and systems that can achieve your goals and have you operating at the level that you need to be. 

Our managed IT and consulting services are customizable, enabling us to provide you with the services you need. For all of your IT needs, including IT consultation in Cincinnati and Dayton, Ohio, contact ETS today!