In a previous blog, I wrote about how to create an effective ICT strategy by creating a synergy between the business oriented IS strategy and the technical oriented IT strategy.Both strategies are linked and the progress of both are jointly assessed and measured through relevant kpis. Synergy between IS strategy and IT strategyThis ‘linkage’ will also allow for changes to the IT strategy in order to adapt to changes in the IS strategy driven by the business environment. To further facilitate the delivery of the IT strategy, it is helpful to view the strategy ‘financially’ as an investment portfolio. As the progress of the IT strategy is reviewed, the related kpi’s are assessed and with changes in the IS strategy, it may be decided to alter the relative proportions within the portfolio.

In my consultancy work with different organisations, I get asked what makes for an effective ICT strategy. Also on a related basis, is there a difference between and IS strategy and an IT strategy ? In this blog, I give my 2c on these two related topics. The ICT strategy must support both the organisation’s business strategy and also show how ICT can be used to provide opportunities for new ways of doing business. An effective ICT strategy is a combination of an IS strategy and IT strategy