CIO OPINION
More than ever , CIOs have their work cut out for them as we enter the new year .
but also manipulate public brand perception and impact stock prices for financial gain .
This is no easy feat for CIOs to overcome , but they must be vigilant of such threats and work closely with government institutions to weigh in on suitable legislation . Additionally , they must deploy updated cybersecurity measures and detection algorithms to minimize the risks of being caught off-guard .
Expand the role of Artificial Intelligence
While COVID-19 has temporarily slowed the growth of AI , it has also further asserted the role of AI and analytics as an ‘ essential navigational tool ’ for businesses today . Organizations have leveraged AI as a strategic asset to strengthen its response to the pandemic , ( i . e . by making demand forecasts , evaluating their supply-chain operations to effectively allocate resources ).
Beyond these immediate use cases , CIOs must capitalize on the strengths of AI to unlock further growth opportunities in the new norm . The pandemic has dramatically changed the business landscape , and CIOs who can tap on the potential of AI – to enhance customer experience , accelerate innovation and empower employees – will be able to develop a competitive advantage for their business .
Integrate IT and OT systems
The proliferation of IoT – with the boom of technologies like smart lamp posts , smart home appliances and wearable devices – has accelerated the convergence of IT ( software ) and OT ( hardware ). CIOs must then relook at how they integrate their IT and OT systems , especially given that remote access in OT systems has now become the norm .
These increased access points amplify the threat vectors and cyberattackers may expose vulnerabilities to carry out attacks on the system . While there is conventionally a dichotomy between IT and OT teams and structures , CIOs must-have the foresight to incorporate both as pressing priorities for their cybersecurity strategy .
If possible , they should create a cross-functional team comprising IT and OT experts to cover the entire system cycle of cyber-protection – from threat detection , incident response and system recovery . Only then will they be able to reap the benefits of IoT adoption without compromising on their security .
More than ever , CIOs have their work cut out for them as we enter the new year . They play a critical role alongside business decision-makers in charting their organization ’ s course and digital narrative for the next few months ahead , and potentially make or break their business in this new norm . p
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