There are two different, interdependent components of IT that are important to a CIO: strategy, which is long-term; and tactical and operational concerns, which are short-term. Based on this distinction and its repercussions, this book clearly separates strategy from day-to-day operations and projects from operations the two most important functions of a CIO.

It starts by discussing the ideal organization of an IT department and the rationale behind it, and then goes on to debate the most pressing need managing operations. It also explains some best industry standards and their...