Regardless, open communication is essential, says Pereyra, who advocates constant dialogue that helps align expectations and address concerns. “We’re bombarded by technologies that always arrive with the promise of revolutionizing all sectors,” he says. “So it’s our responsibility to rationalize all this information, give visibility to the company and its business areas of what these solutions can provide, and, more specifically, what is applicable to the company.” He adds the importance of maintaining a customer-centric approach, “to align our efforts with their needs,” considering that circumstances change quickly, and being willing to adapt is essential to staying relevant.
If communication is key, then patience and long-term planning are equally vital, according to Cossio, when it comes to digital transformation projects. “You have to have a clear roadmap, with short-, medium-, and long-term objectives, and be aware there will be times when progress won’t be as fast as desired,” she says.
There’s also the need to recognize this isn’t just a technological change, but a cultural change. Flexibility is essential to not only help manage technology, but drive growth and innovation. With this adoption of a new way of working, driven by digital tools, the role of the CIO and the relationship with the CEO, are irreversibly intertwined.
