Discover effective strategies for Information Systems executives to navigate and overcome challenges in a dynamic digital environment.

New offering integration is constant in a world of tech evolution. What's not discussed enough is legacy retirement. Agility, speed and cost are correlated to maintaining old technology. To often, new tech that can completely encompass old tech are merely bolted on to make up old gaps without actual retirement of the old. Example: as event based patterns increase, some solutions enable event handling and legacy patterns. Many companies keep the legacy and add the eventing component instead of replacing the entire old platform with the new. This results in unrationalized technology, maintenance of redundant products and skill sets and support for additional failure points. Make the rule: redundancy without retirement is not acceptable.

Last updated on Aug 14, 2024

You're navigating challenges as an Information Systems executive. How can you overcome them effectively?

As an Information Systems (IS) executive, you're well aware that the digital landscape is ever-evolving. Your role requires not only a deep understanding of technology but also the ability to lead through complex and often unexpected challenges. Whether it's cybersecurity threats, data management issues, or the need for system upgrades, the hurdles can seem daunting. However, with the right strategies and a proactive mindset, you can navigate these challenges effectively and ensure your organization's IS infrastructure is robust, secure, and aligned with business goals.

1 Embrace Change

In the realm of Information Systems, change is the only constant. As an executive, embracing change and fostering a culture that encourages innovation are key to staying ahead. This means not only keeping abreast of emerging technologies but also being willing to adapt your strategies and systems when necessary. By promoting flexibility and a willingness to pivot, you create an environment where your team is not intimidated by change but instead sees it as an opportunity for growth and improvement.

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Joe Kennedy
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Navigating challenges is a misnomer. There is no end to creation in a world of change, only the next challenge so adjust your mindset: You have no challenges, only constant puzzles to be solved. This forces a regiment you do for life: #1 SET ASSIDE TIME to learn what is NOT your target. e.g. I watch the TIOBE index and any language advancing I learn. #2 - Understand breadth: if you know one technology, research competitors, understand who is rising and falling and why. #3 Literally try things with non-conforming solutions intentionally. You may find new ways to use tools, but it really makes you more flexible and able to react to change as it makes your thinking malleable. When you are change, you don't have to embrace it.

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2 Risk Management

Effective risk management is critical for any IS executive. You need to identify potential threats to your information systems, such as cyber attacks or data breaches, and develop a comprehensive plan to mitigate these risks. This involves regular security assessments, implementing strong cybersecurity measures, and ensuring that all staff are trained in best practices for data protection. By being proactive about risk management, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of a security incident and its potential impact on your organization.

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Joe Kennedy
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Risk mitigation is paramount to business functions, but I tend to put more on recoverability and time to do that than the actual prevention of disasters. Disasters will happen, by their nature they are unexpected and unplanned. This means we need to acknowledge we will fail. When we put our efforts into, how fast can we get back up from that issue we strengthen ourselves in a few ways: #1 we are able to recover from an unplanned incident (that is why it's an incident). #2 we are able to use that recovery capability to build in efficiency and redundancy: something used for recovery can usually also be used for expansion.

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3 Data Governance

Data governance is a strategic imperative in the information systems landscape. You must establish clear policies and procedures for how data is handled within your organization. This includes defining roles and responsibilities, setting data quality standards, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations. A strong data governance framework not only protects your company's information assets but also enhances decision-making processes by ensuring that stakeholders have access to accurate and timely data.

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4 Tech Integration

Integrating new technologies into existing systems can be a complex task. As an IS executive, it's your responsibility to ensure that technology integration is seamless and adds value to the organization. This means conducting thorough due diligence on new tools, planning for integration challenges, and ensuring that your team has the necessary skills to manage new systems. By carefully managing technology integration, you can avoid disruptions to business operations and maximize the benefits of new IS solutions.

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Joe Kennedy
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New offering integration is constant in a world of tech evolution. What's not discussed enough is legacy retirement. Agility, speed and cost are correlated to maintaining old technology. To often, new tech that can completely encompass old tech are merely bolted on to make up old gaps without actual retirement of the old. Example: as event based patterns increase, some solutions enable event handling and legacy patterns. Many companies keep the legacy and add the eventing component instead of replacing the entire old platform with the new. This results in unrationalized technology, maintenance of redundant products and skill sets and support for additional failure points. Make the rule: redundancy without retirement is not acceptable.

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5 Talent Development

The success of your information systems depends heavily on the talent within your team. Investing in ongoing education and professional development for your staff is crucial. Encourage them to stay current with the latest IS trends and acquire new skills. This not only benefits your organization by fostering a knowledgeable and adaptable workforce but also helps with employee retention by showing that you value their growth and career progression.

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Raphael Luna

Head of IT | CISO | Senior IT Superintendent| Systems Architecture and Development Sr Manager | Digital Transformation
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Mesmo que o ambiente não esteja favorável, investir na formação da equipe, promovendo um ambiente de aprendizado e inovação, é essencial. Em momentos desafiadores, se aproximar do time, sendo sincero e transparente é fundamental para avançar com essas agendas.

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6 Strategic Vision

As an IS executive, having a strategic vision for how technology can drive business objectives is fundamental. You must align your IS initiatives with the company's goals and communicate this vision clearly to your team and stakeholders. By doing so, you ensure that every IS project or investment is purpose-driven and contributes to the overall success of the organization. A strong strategic vision also helps in prioritizing tasks and allocating resources effectively, which is essential in the fast-paced world of information systems.

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You're navigating challenges as an Information Systems executive. How can you overcome them effectively?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Embrace Change

2 Risk Management

3 Data Governance

4 Tech Integration

5 Talent Development

6 Strategic Vision

Information Systems

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You're navigating challenges as an Information Systems executive. How can you overcome them effectively?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Embrace Change

2 Risk Management

3 Data Governance

4 Tech Integration

5 Talent Development

6 Strategic Vision

Information Systems

Rate this article

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