[Discuss] Justify your existence

[blu at nedharvey.com (Edward Ned Harvey)]

> From: discuss-bounces+blu=nedharvey.com at blu.org [mailto:discuss-
> bounces+blu=nedharvey.com at blu.org] On Behalf Of Edward Ned Harvey
> 
> With only a moment's thought, and only a few words, how do you describe
> the
> value that your role adds to the organization?  How do you justify your
own
> existence, casually, when talking to a CFO or somebody in a social
> situation?

There is a level of support (IT and otherwise) that is necessary just to
keep the doors open for business.  Many businesses cut their support down to
this level, thinking of us as "overhead."  But beyond that point - IT is a
force multiplier, we provide competitive advantage (neutralizing
competitors' advantage, or gaining our own competitive advantage).  Both in
terms of our organization's ability to produce more and meet more targets,
and in terms of our ability to attract & retain talented workforce.

When you think about it, most of the "coolness" factors of an organization
are support related, IT and otherwise.  Coolness factors represent a real,
but often intangible or unmeasurable, advantage to attracting & retaining
talent.  It's company image, it's marketing for your brand.

So.  We are justified for two reasons:  (a) Keep the lights on, and (b)
Competitive Advantage.