CIOs\u27 Power, Influence, and IS Strategy Implementation

The increased attention given to information technology (IT) in the business environment has propelled information systems (IS) and Chief Information Officers (CIOs) into prominent positions in many firms. Yet, little is known about CIOs’ sources of power, how they exercise influence, and their part in implementing IS strategy. This paper addresses power and influence issues through its focus on two research questions: 1) What role do CIO power sources play in the exercise of influence? and 2) What CIO influence behaviors contribute to successful IS strategy implementation? This paper, which forms the backdrop for a larger research project, develops a research model designed to explore these research questions. The paper introduces a brief literature review of power and influence, a research model, preliminary findings and propositions, and a description of future plans