5.1. Why Wasn't Alignment Principle 1?

As I have introduced the ideas described in this book at a wide range of companies, several of our CIO clients have asked why business alignment is not the first principle represented. Their logic continues, "If the ultimate determinant of value for IT is value delivered to the business, then shouldn't this come first?" They have a point. In fact, no matter the state of the IT department, I have advised CIOs who are new to their current position that although they should begin by interviewing members of their own team to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the department, they also should spend at least as much time with the business. This should include not only the senior members of the business ...

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