Who's more responsible for outsourcing technology? The CTO or CIO?

CIO77%

CTO22%

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Director of Technology Strategy in Services (non-Government)2 years ago

It depends on what you are outsourcing, the CTO doesn't have full remit across technology, while the CIO isn't always responsible for the CTOs world

Either way, a very clear strategy should be in place first.

CEO in Software4 years ago

The reasons for outsourcing are mostly well known. How to outsource successfully is still a bit of magic (people) with some science. 

Specifically to the question of CIO vs CTO, the CTO doesn't own functions or service delivery (in the vast majority of businesses), so it doesn't make sense for them to do any outsourcing, where they lead. However, for certain technology focused outsource efforts, the CTO being involved as a second set of eyes and strategy considerations for the CIO is a great option.

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CIO in Finance (non-banking)5 years ago

Outsourcing can have multiple reasons one of which is pure labor arbitrage but there are several strategic reasons in this labor market. Regardless, CIO usually owns the decision and should lean on their CTO for advice as they think through implications and sometimes unintended consequences. A decision like is is usually never unilateral with multiple executive team members in play.

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Director Certifications in Education5 years ago

Yes, absolutely agree. Been through a couple in my career.

Director Certifications in Education5 years ago

I think it is the CEO or CFO to cut costs

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no title5 years ago

Cost cutting is an objective and can sometimes be achieved through Outsourcing. Sometimes outsourcing also stems from time to market, scaling, extended coverage or other needs. CIOs generally carry the baton on vendor choices, execution and overall accountability.

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Who's more responsible for outsourcing technology? The CTO or CIO? | Gartner Peer Community