The CEO's perspective

Tech is my biggest expense, and I’m not sure what kind of return we’re getting. I know I’ve got good people, and I see them working hard. I just don’t understand what they’re working on or why we need to fight over every change.

That’s a conversation I had with the CEO of a mid-sized company.

It’s a special kind of hell.

Everyone is doing their best, but there is nothing to show.

Without effective alignment between business and tech, the tech team is a black box, probably working on initiatives that don’t create value.

Your team fights fires and keeps things running, but at what cost?

Sometimes, it pays to let a few fires burn so that you can focus on what **really **matters.

But you’re thrusting in the dark until you know what that is.

I welcome these situations because there is plenty of untapped potential to be unleashed.

The resources are there. The people work hard. The spark is alive.

The team needs an inspiring goal, improved communication, and focus on the outcome.

It sounds easy, but it’s hard to have any battle sense when you’re in the trench.

The harder you struggle, the more it pays to examine your strategy.

Ideally with someone who is not in the trench with you.

Best regards,

Taj