In an era of shadow IT and business units having increased technical know-how, how IT is perceived matters. It says whether IT is invited to the table to discuss initiatives during the planning phase or afterwards to clean up the mess created and integrate what the business bought to the rest of the tech stack. Even more, it says whether IT, who often has the best understanding of "the art of the possible," is part of the digital transformation conversation . Given this, IT’s brand with the rest of the business and business leadership matters. So, what do CIOs think and how can they become brand builders? Establishing the Message for IT According to former CIO Joanna Young, “IT has a brand — known or unknown, deserved, or undeserved. IT leaders need to be thoughtful about their internal brand. Does it comport with the value they are or should be delivering?” Clearly, it is too easy for IT to be seen as separate from the real business. Or even worse as a utility. An effective IT organization demonstrates alignment for credibility and partnership. Everything starts, says Deb Gildersleeve, “with the rest of the business understanding that IT is in […]