Managing IT as a Business: A Survival Guide for CEOs

I have only one simple statement - where were you Mark when I started my IT career 17 years ago? Today I would have been a CIO! I highly recommend this book for those starting out their careers in IT as it gives a big picture look to the field. Own it and refer to the clear and relevant graphics in the book.

This is a fabulous book for experienced or aspiring IT managers whose goal is to prepare for ascension through the ranks, especially to the CIO level. In simple yet rich language, Mark presents a clear picture of the future of the IT organization and the competencies needed in the CIO and senior team heading up this professional services operation. The examples and case studies are rich with insights. In short, this book is pragmatic and weighty, yet also highly readable and I dare say outright enjoyable. I highly recommend it as a must read for anyone who wants to develop an effective IT career roadmap. Thank you Mark Lutchen.Joe Santana,Co-author Manage IT

Managing IT as a Business is a no nonsense guide to making the IT function accountable for what it does and does not deliver. The auhor 'gets it'and provides real examples that demonstrate what gets measured, gets managed; and what gets managed, gets done. The book lays out a framework for looking at IT, making it easy to apply the principles in any IT environment. Overall, it's a great addition to the library. I highly recommend it.

Both Business and IT managers will find useful insights in this book. The collection of case studies along with the presented analytical framework provide a solid foundation for addressing many of the classic technology management issues.In addition the book helps examine the functional business aspects of running an IT function. How refreshing to finally read book that offers practical information on how to effectively run an IT organization!

"Managing IT as a Business" will help senior business management executives understand how to view and manage the Information Technology (IT) organization. How should IT be structured and aligned to support the business vision? What does IT really cost? The author, Mark Lutchen, has developed an IT management "lens" framework to view the critical drivers of IT success. This framework provides an excellent way for business management to think about what IT needs to accomplish.The book really delivers its value through nine key initiatives for the business and the IT organization to realize the full potential of IT resources. Mr. Lutchen's use of case studies involving considerable business issues and applied IT management solutions, has helped me visualize how these initiatives can dramatically impact a business. The author's coverage of issues such as IT governance, alignment, organization structure, spend, investment cycles, and focus on outcomes are precise and timely, given the mixed success that IT professional management has progressed in corporations today. I think what is unique about the author's perspective is his experience not only as an IT management consultant, but a Global CIO for one of the big-4 accounting firms. Business and financial management are key underlying themes in this book. You will find this book insightful and thought-provoking, enabling a business leader to establish and leverage a more powerful IT organization.