IT chiefs must talk CEO's language

It’s not surprising that IT gets better results when IT chiefs have seniority in the organisation (Firms reap benefits of board-level IT chiefs, 6 February). IT is more fundamental to business than its leaders are often willing to admit.

Although the quoted research shows IT leaders need the ear of the CEO, it doesn’t prove that those who gain such access will say the right things. To be effective, IT leaders must speak the CEO’s language. This will only happen if they are able to provide a transparent and objective view of IT’s value.

It is certainly encouraging to see the age-old argument about IT on the board being supported with some practical evidence. Now we as an industry have to provide the tools that will make it common practice.

Sean Larner, Managed Objects