In an IT-enabled enterprise, what role does technology ideally play?

In an IT-enabled enterprise, technology plays a multifaceted role that encompasses both driving and enabling the business strategy. As a driver, technology helps shape the strategic direction by introducing innovations and efficiencies that can redefine business processes and customer engagement. For example, the adoption of new technologies can lead organizations to explore new markets, develop new products, or improve service delivery methods, thereby influencing strategic goals.

At the same time, technology serves as an enabler by providing the necessary tools and infrastructure that allow an organization to effectively implement its strategy. This might include enabling better communication through collaboration tools, enhancing data analytics capabilities for informed decision-making, or streamlining operations through automation. In this way, IT transforms strategic concepts into practical execution, ensuring that the organization's goals are met efficiently.

Recognizing technology as both a driver and an enabler reflects the dynamic nature of the relationship between business strategy and IT in a modern enterprise, where advancements in technology can lead to new strategic opportunities while also supporting the achievement of existing goals.