The role of a virtual CIO and how one can improve IT results for your business

For small and medium-sized businesses, there are numerous challenges when it comes to using technology effectively. From developing efficient IT infrastructure to formulating plans for the future, there’s no shortage of tasks to complete. Meeting this level of need while remaining focused on running the business isn’t easy, especially if your staff and resources are already spread thin. If you're feeling like your company needs a little extra help in the technology department but you're not quite ready to make the leap, it may be time to consider a virtual Chief Information Officer. Let's explore.

First, what is a virtual Chief Information Officer?

A virtual chief information officer covers a wide range of needs, from business operations to technology plans to software solutions. No matter your company's industry and existing IT setup, virtual CIO solutions encourage business growth and increase service quality within your team, increasing both employee and customer satisfaction while staying well within your budget. Since they are not a permanent fixture in your company, vCIOs bring a much-needed outside perspective and a wide range of experiences while saving you money in the long run.

What are the benefits of using virtual CIO services as opposed to hiring a full‑time internal CIO?

By using virtual CIO services, you have access to the consulting services, expertise and strategic planning of a high-level decision-maker without the stress of budgeting for a C-suite executive. In essence, you are reaping all the rewards without dealing with the negative consequences.

Virtual CIOs come with a wide range of experiences to help you meet your business objectives. Because they are not internal, they bring a valuable outside point of view and well-rounded analysis to help you develop a strategic plan when it comes to business technology. VCIOs bring progressive solutions and a broad range of professional services to the table to ensure your organization's success.

Finally, vCIO providers strive to build a long-term relationship with your company and make a positive impact so your daily operations run as they should. They take care to meet your needs and want to create a positive business relationship that reflects well on both your organization and their managed service delivery. Because they depend on reviews, they strive to earn a positive assessment from your team. Your company's success is their company's success.

How can a virtual CIO team of experts give my organization a competitive edge?

When you use virtual services for vCIO roles, you're investing in better business performance, an advanced technical background and increased workplace satisfaction.

Since you only have to use vCIO services as needed, you aren't taking as big of a business risk as you would by hiring a full-time internal CIO. VCIO services save mid-sized businesses money by allowing them to forgo paying an annual six-figure salary to an internal CIO while simultaneously delivering effective management, proper planning and technology success. On average, vCIO services bring 10-20x more expertise than traditional CIOs, so your business benefits greatly from them, even if used sparingly.

VCIO services also save time by bringing full awareness of industry trends from the get-go. This allows them to quickly come up with an original solution and detailed analysis without training. Their approach to service allows for ample planning time, fast approval of projects and quick client feedback. Since they have an ample background in building out technology planning, disaster recovery planning, compliance regulations and more, they have more successful projects than a singular internal CIO. You can think of the valiant team that makes up your vCIO as a vital business partner as opposed to just another large salary to pay for less effective results.

How can Milner help my organization meet its vCIO needs?

With years of quality expertise, regulatory compliance knowledge and a fool-proof vCIO process, Milner can help your organization exceed its annual technology plans while laying the groundwork for opportunities for growth. When you partner with Milner, you are building a strategic business relationship that will benefit your team for years to come. Milner's vCIO consulting services are thorough and fast while adhering to your budget, allowing you to get the most bang for your buck in a short amount of time.

Because of Milner's wide range of incredible IT services and solutions, we have access to the latest technology, brightest minds and best practices in the IT sector. By combining these tools, we can provide you with the perfect solution, no matter your company's size, specialty or current setup. Milner rejects the one-size-fits-all mentality, allowing us to focus on your organization's specific needs and business goals. Our dedication to personalized service allows you to make the absolute most out of your budget while exceeding your expectations.

To see how your current technology policies and practices stack up, you can request a consultation by clicking here. Our team of experts will thoroughly evaluate your organization, and we will present the best solutions to meet your needs and budget. We look forward to working with you to build the best one-of-a-kind solution for your business.