Can hiring a part-time or "fractional" CIO be an effective solution for startups or SMBs?
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no title3 years ago
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Director of IT in Software3 years ago
It can be a good solution for a startup and SMB.
The advantage is that you control the cost and can potentially attract more senior CIO who perhaps is not ready to move to your organization on a full-time role.
I have seen organizations hiring vCISO and some offering vCISO as a service. The same can be applied to the CIO position.
The critical part here is to have a way to ensure they have the dedicated time and focus for your startup/SMB.
SMBs definitely yes if (1) Scope of work is limited and (2) Cost is a consideration. As they grow and hire a full-time CIO, the foundation will already be present.
I do not think a startup would need a CIO. If at all, the need will be for a CTO who can also play the necessary CIO role.