We recently received a request from a writer at Processor.com who was looking for tips about how IT managers can build more effective partnerships with their line-of-business counterparts. Here are five suggestions we shared for your consideration:

  1. Improve communication: Business unit leaders are accustomed to instant gratification on Amazon, eBay and Google. They will expect similar results from internal IT unless you do a thorough job of communicating costs, options and other data.
  2. Develop an understanding of your organization's core vision and objectives: A view across the multiple parts or divisions of the business is essential for properly prioritizing IT projects and resources. As an IT executive, you're often weighed down with multiple, sometimes competing objectives. Understanding how these fit together will ensure success.
  3. Share your process discipline: IT is well positioned to provide process discipline to other parts of the business and can accelerate business results if deployed thoughtfully. Your PMI certified project managers can help other professionals in the business develop plans and execute them with discipline. When offering your project management services don't be heavy handed – volunteer and wait for a response is the best approach.
  4. Become an enabler rather than a supplier: Enablers, consultants and other specialists are perceived as providing high value internally. Suppliers are not. Your level of understanding in IT can differentiate the IT organization internally.
  5. Everyone sells: Most IT Directors are responsible for a large chunk of the corporate spend annually. Vendors and suppliers to IT are potential customers to the rest of your business. Ensure that you are maximizing your opportunity for “balance of trade” conversations with vendors and suppliers that might help your colleagues in the business.

What do you think? Have you tried building collaborative, results-oriented relationships with your fellow managers? Your comments and additional ideas on this subject are welcome.