A CIO’s first 100 days can determine his or her success as a change maker. This transition period helps set the tone for a CIO’s entire tenure. But new government CIOs can fall into a reactive approach of technology management that is not sustainable and is rarely successful over time. The most effective new CIOs recognize the need for a comprehensive, strategic approach that goes far beyond technology. New CIOs need a plan that lays out specific actions and outcomes for the first 100 days. The plan should include all the areas that CIOs must focus on to establish themselves as strong leaders, including people, culture, process, and strategy. A comprehensive plan can empower them to make the essential technology decisions in ways that deliver the greatest impact.
Government CIOs today have an awesome responsibility that touches on the IT organization, the agency, and the mission. The first 100 days on the job is the time to lay the groundwork for success, and a plan helps new CIOs make the most of this critical time.