Two Predictors of CEO/CIO Convergence

摘要

Effective communication and mutual understanding (i.e., convergence) between an organization's chief executive officer and chief information officer is an important factor in an organization's efforts to successfully exploit information technology. Communications theory predicts that greater communication frequency and channel richness lead to more such convergence. This research used a mail survey of 202 pairs of CEOs and CIOs to investigate the effect of communication frequency and channel richness on CEO/CIO convergence. More frequent communication between the CEO and CIO predicted convergence about the current and future role of IT. The use of richer channels did not predict convergence about the current role of IT. From a research perspective, the study extended theory about communication frequency, media richness, convergence, and the role of IT in organizations. It also provided additional validation of existing instruments to help future researchers studying communication and IT. From a managerial perspective, it provided direction for CEOs and CIOs who may be interested in increasing their mutual understanding of the role of IT and thus improving their relationship with each other.