Tech Execs face a daunting task. They must stay updated on tech advancements’ impact on their business, while assessing the alignment with business needs and competition. The complexity of the environment intensifies the challenges.
As a tech exec, you can’t know everything. It’s impossible. Technology is changing today faster than ever before, and the pace is just going to increase. It’s like trying to fuel the plane as it’s taking off. Best you can do is surround yourself with smart people who are versed in various areas of technology, like cloud, infrastructure, cyber, application development, testing, etc… but it’s all changing in front of our eyes.
The tech exec needs to keep their ego in check. Many leaders I speak with like to say, “I’ve been in this business for many years, and I know what I’m doing.” All true. However, knowing what the new technology is and how to apply it to the modern technology environment is important, and difficult to do. And the senior IT guy can’t know everything. Yes, concepts from past experiences certainly have application. However, you need people who specialize in different technology streams to work with you in order to keep you current.
Try to be as nimble as you can be. Obviously, it’s more difficult with large monoethnic environments that have developed over decades. Newer technology platforms adapt more easily but don’t have the advantage of history, that if applied effectively will keep the larger more experienced organizations out in front.