In many IT organizations, inadequate succession planning is a time bomb - easily ignored in the short term, but with the potential for disaster in the future. Robust IT succession planning begins by formulating a solid future vision for the IT division and the entire business. The following steps can make implementing an IT succession plan a success!

Partner with business leaders to create a shared vision of the future, and align your department with the service needs of the business.

Work proactively to create the structures that will feed your future service and growth: mentoring, tutoring, leadership training, and executive involvement in management development.

Investment in the future must permeate every level of IT culture, starting at the top. Only total future orientation can ensure the continued success of your IT organization.