A conceptual framework for Chief Information Officers (CIO), IT strategy and IT disconnect; in organizations to deliver their expectations in the African context

Purpose of the research- Traditionally, the focus of the digital leaders was on information technology (IT) stability and operational efficiency, but these areas are now table stakes, and top chief Information Officers (CIOs) collaborate with executive counterparts to identify potential for growth enabled by technology. As the boundaries between products, services, and technology become hazier, the CIO is expected to help make a difference at the front end, improving the customer experience and supporting revenue and growth. However, most IT tasks are not connected with the futurist demand thus creating a disconnect that affects the overall performance of the organization. IT disconnect is prominent on the African continent because most CIOs are not part of the top management thus affecting IT alignment in organizations. The purpose is to develop a framework to help organization deal with all aspect to enable them achieve expected outcomes on the African continent and beyond. Design/methodology- This study used qualitative approach by talking to practitioners in the field of business and IT in the African context. In order to obtain a thorough understanding of the framework for the constructs (Chief Information Officers (CIO), IT strategy, IT disconnect and expectation of organizations). Case studies and interviews were used as two main data collection techniques. Results/findings- This IT disconnect is prominent on the African continent because most CIOs are not part of the top management thus affecting IT alignment in organizations. Unlike most organizations in the West, including Universities, the designation of CIO is not part of the IT structure thereby enforcing the IT disconnect. Practical implications and Conclusions -The digital divide between the western world and the African continent is evident. The CIO’s role goes beyond IT; however, the IS literature has mostly overlooked the issue of whether African CIOs as change agents who need additional skills sets that can make them effective. CIOs who will ensure that they invest in an IT strategy that improve the businesses expectations. CIO will have to be mindful that IT that disconnects will adversely affect the enterprise. Using the theories of diffusion of innovation, dynamic capabilities and transformational leadership managers of organizations will appreciate practices is can be theorized.