Only 12% of infrastructure and operations (I&O) leaders believe that they exceed the performance expectations of their CIOs, according to a new Gartner, Inc. survey.
“I&O leaders must support senior leadership by proactively contributing to their organization’s ability to navigate economic uncertainty,” said Cameron Haight, VP Analyst at Gartner.
I&O leaders’ challenges
The survey among 122 I&O leaders from enterprises in North America, EMEA, and Asia/Pacific reveals that cybersecurity risks, supply chain disruptions, talent and skills shortages, and funding challenges are the most frequent threats I&O leaders face this year.
“While it remains to be seen what 2024 budgets will look like, the lack of real funding growth observed to date could cause projects to be deferred into next year, causing a cascading appropriations challenge,” said Haight. “Given this scenario, I&O leaders must work smarter to achieve business outcomes with fewer resources.”
Navigating headwinds
Gartner identified three vital actions for I&O leaders to succeed despite challenges, including developing a workplace environment that improves well-being and inclusiveness and undertaking activities that improve I&O efficiency through enhanced analysis capabilities.
Gartner also emphasises the importance of enhancing I&O’s ability to become a full-fledged partner in digital business activities.
