CIOs refocusing internally to weather recession storm

That's the picture according to research commissioned by Fujitsu Technology Solutions. The report, entitled 'Dynamic Infrastructures and the Future of IT', reveals that almost 40% of IT leaders see delivering customer services as a key differentiator in the economic down turn. More than half (57%) have also prioritised the improvement of service levels as a KPI for investment in new technology. And there is also evidence that much of this focus will be on shining in the eyes of internal customers, as much as those outside the organisation. How do they intend to do that? 53% of respondents expressed a desire to be proactive and change the way IT is perceived within their organisations. And just over a half (51%) said that IT has improved internal communication. When asked how IT will contribute to business success, increased productivity and lower operating cost were the two top benefits. "This is the latest variation on the model of doing more with less," says Paul Parrish, Fujitsu UK managing director. "As the recession puts pressure on all business departments … it is clear that many CIOs are looking to see how technology can add value without going outside the castle walls of their business."