In today’s world, it seems like all business operations are digital. However, relying on an increasingly digital infrastructure means there is a higher risk of technical difficulties. And learning what a vCIO is can help you manage your business affairs.
At many small-sized businesses, business owners attempt to troubleshoot IT issues while performing their regular duties. The reason why this happens is usually because a small business cannot afford the overhead costs of a full-time Chief Information Officer (CIO).
However, there is a more cost-effective solution that will not leave CEOs overwhelmed.
A Virtual Chief Information Officer, or vCIO, is an excellent option for small businesses that need an IT person but cannot afford one. In this article, we will answer the question “what is a vCIO?” and explain what one can do for your company.
What is a Virtual CIO?
A virtual CIO is an information technology professional that usually works for a managed service provider (MSP). Offering a mix of remote and in-person support, a good vCIO will build a strong relationship with your organization and develop a keen understanding of your business goals.
vCIOs will use their understanding of your company to help decision-makers make critical technology decisions. Many of them will also troubleshoot technical difficulties and maintain your digital infrastructure.
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What Does a Virtual CIO Do?
Virtual CIO services can support any stage of your technology strategy. Most virtual CIOs offer multiple services including:
Strategic Planning
vCIOs are knowledgeable about technology trends. They use this knowledge and their understanding of your business to help you plan your IT strategy. A good virtual CIO will consider your budget constraints while they work on this plan.
Virtual CIOs offer advice about which emerging technologies you should adopt and what you should update to improve your ROI.
Informed technology strategies lead to rapid digital improvements. Research from Gartner solidifies this claim, with 56% of CEOs reporting that digital improvements directly increase revenue.
Cybersecurity
Cybercrime is the most profitable illegal activity in the world and cybercriminals are constantly evolving their strategies. For this reason, you need a well-informed cybersecurity professional to protect your business.
Virtual CIO solutions enhance your security measures with up-to-date knowledge and tactics. They can advise you on the best cybersecurity strategy for your business and help you implement it.
In addition, a vCIO may be able to provide cybersecurity training for your staff or perform these duties themselves, based on their experience.
Data Management
When it is time to analyze your business data, accurate information is crucial. Yet, 82% of small businesses have had to redo their analytics due to poor data management. Usually, this is a result of multitasking by one employee who has too many responsibilities.
A virtual CIO can perform data management and migration duties at your business. Having a trusted person who is focused on your infrastructure reduces errors. Furthermore, vCIOs have the expertise to help you prevent costly mistakes.
IT Reporting
Like an on-premises CIO, you should hold regular meetings with your vCIO to evaluate and assess your technology goals. Your virtual CIO can explain what works and what has not been beneficial. You can use their advice to make informed decisions about your next steps.
During these meetings, you can also reflect on the value that your vCIO has offered. This may be a good time to assess your contract, expand their duties, or scale back if necessary. Good virtual CIOs are open to your evaluation and focused on delivering the best possible service.
What is a vCIO’s Biggest Advantage?
Investing in a virtual CIO’s services can result in some surprising long-term benefits. Cost and time savings are the most common reasons why companies hire vCIOs. However, businesses gain more than reduced costs and more time. Other benefits include:
Predictability
Working with a vCIO is a partnership. Your consultant will always be available to answer questions and provide advice at any stage of any project. Good vCIOs will follow their strategic plan so you can predict all upcoming IT project requirements.
Innovation
Virtual CIOs work for many different clients. As a result, you can get an outside perspective from someone who has overseen a lot of technology projects. These insights can drive innovation by bringing new ideas to your company’s strategy.
Flexibility
vCIO services can scale up or down as much as you need. Virtual CIOs understand that business needs change and are willing to accommodate. In most cases, your consultant has seen another business owner make a similar change. They will know how to adapt to yours.
Resourcefulness
vCIOs are technology experts, and can show you how to use your current resources to their fullest potential. Of course, they will help you transition to new technologies when necessary. However, they can also tell you when your current infrastructure is sufficient for your needs.
Efficiency
Having a strong strategic plan and the right tools will increase your organization’s efficiency. Lack of direction is one of the top causes of low productivity. A strategic plan crafted by you and your vCIO can help mitigate this lost time.
Interested in learning more about strategic planning and IT consulting? Check out these blogs: |
What Does a vCIO Do? Find Out With The Isidore Group
If you have decided that virtual CIO solutions are right for your company, your next step is finding one. Many MSPs offer vCIO services, but you need one that matches your corporate strategy.
The Isidore Group provides strategic managed services for companies of all sizes. Our vCIO and vCTO services offer 24/7 non-intrusive support from certified IT professionals. They will give you advice on how to make your technology project successful for a low cost.
Contact us today to start making educated technology decisions that reduce costs.and promote innovation to propel your business forward.
