ENTERPRISE TECHNOLOGY

Next generation ERP can provide an organisational cockpit with real time data and analytics leading to more coherent C-suite decision making. Sabby Gill at Epicor Software explains the changing dynamics inside the C-suite.

bit of conflict between members of the C-suite is inevitable. When each member has different priorities and business objectives with the rest of the C-suite, it is possible for this conflict to cause problems. Part of the tension is caused by a lack of consensus on business growth. According to recent research by Epicor, this misalignment of goals could lead to business problems if left unchecked.

But if differing viewpoints are channeled positively, using technology and data to inform decision-making, ideas can foster growth and innovation rather than continue to be a source of conflict.

40 % of CEOs agreed access to information is of importance to them compared to 34 % of CFOs, COOs and CIOs on average

What else could be contributing to conflict within the C-suite? One theory is that the CEO occupies a lonely position compared to the rest of the C-suite and has very little insight into the inner-workings of the internal departments within the business. CEOs tend to be more concerned with their outward selves, answering to stakeholders and explaining numbers to the board of directors.

Rob Morris, Managing Director and General Manager of Intellectual Property at leadership consultancy firm YSC believes CEOs may feel the burden of growth more than other members of the C-suite. He refers to the CEO operating like an island, despite the stereotypical image of a CEO projecting confidence and stability.

A recent study in Harvard Business Review examined how the burden of being responsible for tough business decisions can make a difference. It found that, 93 % of CEOs require more preparation for the role than they get and are unready for the loneliness and accountability that lies ahead.

A variety of new technology roles could also be aggravating the tension within the C-suite. As a Wall Street Journal article reports, CIOs and CTOs are struggling to differentiate their responsibilities. The article goes on to say, with so many roles, even other C-levels may not know where to turn to address a particular IT-related issue or problem. And the overlaps and conflicts may well lead to infighting.

But while it is normal to have differing opinions and views, it is when these conflicts turn unhealthy and start becoming a strain on maintaining strong and healthy business operations that it becomes a problem. As Morris says, conflict in a healthy team climate can lead

18 Issue 03 INTELLIGENT TECH CHANNELS