Lenovo: 3 in 5 CIOs would replace half of company’s tech, if possible

MORRISVILLE – A study commissioned by Lenovo reveals the role of chief information officer, or CIO, has evolved, and along with that evolution, more than half think that their company’s current technology could be improved.

According to the company, which operates a large campus in Research Triangle Park, the survey’s analysis of more than 500 responses shows that 90 percent believe their roles have expanded in the prior years, including to the point of decision-making beyond technology.

And 82 percent of respondents noted that the role of CIO is now more challenging, even compared to two years ago. Part of the reasons cited by respondents, according to Lenovo, is the increasing role of artificial intelligence and automation.

Then there’s also working with and managing processes and technology for remote workers.

The company released a report, which also outlines the challenges CIOs report they face right now.

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Challenges for CIOs

The challenges that CIOs find most difficult, according to survey responses, are solving challenges that pertain to data security and privacy, cybersecurity, technological change, and managing fragmented technology vendor ecosystems. Six in 10 report challenges in deploying new technology, and three in four said they now have a greater impact on their company’s “fortunes” than other executive positions.

“Modern CIOs are the ‘mission control’ for their organizations; their role has transformed drastically in just the span of the past 24 months,” said Ken Wong, President, Lenovo Solutions and Services Group in a statement. “From navigating complex tech ecosystems to keep up with the speed of digital transformation, to upskilling employees and managing a global shortage of IT talent, today’s CIO is responsible for the entire technology value chain and beyond.”

According to a statement from Lenovo, businesses “would feel an impact in no more than a few weeks if they halted spending on digital transformation initiatives, according to 61% of respondents.”

The company recently announced it would enter into the semiconductor business.