com mu ni cate |kəˈmyoōnəˌkāt|
verb
[ intrans. ] share or exchange information, news, or ideas : the prisoner was forbidden to communicate with his family.• [ trans. ] impart or pass on (information, news, or ideas) : he communicated his findings to the inspector.• [ trans. ] convey or transmit (an emotion or feeling) in a nonverbal way : the ability of good teachers to communicate their own enthusiasm | his sudden fear communicated itself.• succeed in conveying one’s ideas or in evoking understanding in others : a politician must have the ability to communicate.
Communications is the most basic way for us to share our ideas with others. Yet for many, we fail at communicating properly. Effective communication within IT and with the business is still a problem. Unclear communication is one reason for mismanagement of projects and propagating the “us versus them” culture. I am not going to point fingers and one side or another. Fault lies with both parties.
How can IT communicate effectively with the business and how can the business communicate effectively with IT?
- Both sides need to provide enough detailed information regarding requirements and scope.
- Both sides need to set realistic schedules and expectations.
- Provide organized structured forums that share information with everyone.
- Provide adequate feedback.
A CIO's Voice 