CIO s as corporate crystal ball gazers

 

JULY 07, 2011 Thursday

3 Ways to Predict the Future of Technology

It's expected that today's chief information officers are able to see deep into the future so they can make reliable predictions (in an ever-changing world) about coming technology. If, like most CIOs, you don't have a crystal ball, try using these three tactics to better see the future: Rely on more than one source. Don't depend on one consulting firm, no matter how well respected. Turn to a variety of internal and external experts to predict what's coming. Go to more than the customary events. Widen your sources by going to a variety of conferences and trade shows. Mingle with vendors, customers, venture capitalists, and academics to see a breadth of views. Look down. Rather than turning to people who have more experience than you, seek out junior people. The younger crowd often spots trends in technology long before even the best CIO knows of them.

Today's Management Tip was adapted from "The CIO as Corporate Psychic" by Robert Plant.