In Search Of The Hybrid CIO At #NRF15
The 2015 NRF BIG Show is in full swing. Since yesterday’s official opening, the ISR team has attended educational sessions, pounded the pavement on the expo floor, and connected with retail’s best and brightest. We’ll continue to do the same throughout the remainder of the event. We’re inspired by some of the in-depth discussions we’re having with retail executives about what they believe is next in retail and what they want out of this year’s show.
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that mobile is in the limelight. Some of the retailers we’ve talked to are interested in uncovering how to realistically connect the digital and physical worlds in a way that meets customers’ expectations. Good news there for retailers in attendance, because there are several educational sessions dedicated to help retailers reach their omni-channel goals.
Indeed, this year’s show is a learning experience. And it should be because 2015 marks a new era in retail. The key to retail success is marrying pragmatism with a thoughtful technological and philosophical vision for the future of the business. Disruptive technologies abound at this year’s show, and they are important to setting retailers apart from their competition. But, as Matt Pillar wrote recently, “As you plot your NRF schedule, prepare to be dazzled, but don’t be disrupted. Stay focused and walk the show floor with a few extra doses of pragmatism in your attendee bag.” He’s correct, as staying the course at the show will help you move forward in the way that makes sense for the business and your customers.
Applying pragmatism to technology solutions spending decisions should always be a priority. But there is a change happening in retail that should not be overlooked. The future of retail lies on the hands of a new kind of CIO — a hybrid CIO — one that combines the traditional roles and skill sets with a forward-thinking vision that embraces risk in implementing technologies. Further, this new hybrid CIO must collaborate with other stakeholders in the organization. For some retailers, this hybrid CIO already exists within the organization, and as a result, the business will reap the benefits. For others, a cultural change may be in order. Retail is a brave new world, and the CIO and other key team members will be need to remain pragmatic and adopt a healthy appreciation for innovation. Your customers will thank you for it.
Please stop by our booth (# 845) to meet the team and to pick up a copy of Integrated Solutions For Retailers. Finally, save the date — please join Matt and me on Tuesday, February 3rd at 2 EST for a laid-back, actionable half hour of discussion and debate about all-things-#NRF15.