What is a Virtual CIO?

Benefits of a Virtual CIO
These days, some SMBs are going one step further in search of a winning technology strategy by seeking answers outside of their companies. The individuals they work with, which are known as “virtual CIOs,” are able to easily provide the knowledge and experience that SMBs often need.
Most organizations that reach a certain size hire a chief information officer (CIO). This is an executive position responsible for overseeing the role of IT within the company. The duties of the CIO include advising the rest of the company on the latest technological developments and how IT can be leveraged to gain an advantage over competitors.
However, adding a CIO to the company payroll is not a feasible option for SMBs that lack the budget to hire another executive. As a solution to this problem, many SMBs contract the role of CIO to a third-party person or company. Enter the virtual CIO.
The Value of a Virtual CIO
Virtual CIOs can be generalists, available to provide advice for nearly any problem or question under the sun, or they can specialize in a particular vertical market or industry. A virtual CIO service provides convenience and flexibility, and it even allows SMBs to consult with multiple vCIOs, with each handling a different topic or role. However, no matter their specialty, good vCIOs must be able to connect the company’s IT situation with its broader business objectives.