IT and business teams have historically worked in silos, creating inefficiencies, slower decision-making, and disconnected consumer experiences. IT builds and maintains technology, while business teams focus on growth, marketing, and operations. Without alignment, brands struggle to execute strategies effectively.
IT and Business teams must align for eCommerce growth
In today’s digital landscape, collaboration between IT and business teams is no longer optional. Jon Harding, CIO at Conair, emphasizes the importance of breaking these silos:
“The focus needs to be on IT and the rest of the business, not IT versus the business.”
It is necessary for brands looking to scale efficiently, improve operations, and create seamless shopping experiences.
IT must shift from a support function to a growth engine
IT is no longer just responsible for infrastructure and troubleshooting. It is a critical driver of eCommerce innovation, omnichannel commerce, and data-driven decision-making. When IT teams are embedded in strategic planning, they create solutions that improve efficiency, streamline operations, and accelerate business growth.
Companies prioritizing IT-business collaboration unlock new efficiencies, enhance agility, and position themselves for long-term success.
Aligning on strategy and budget can help IT and Business teams grow together
For IT and business teams to function as one, they need to align on both strategy and budget. Technology investments must support business goals, and financial planning should involve IT from the start.
Misalignment often leads to friction, particularly in budgeting. Some companies give IT full control over technology budgets, while others opt for shared ownership models. Brands that take a proactive approach by integrating IT into business planning early can ensure that investments in technology directly support revenue growth.
Businesses that clearly define budget ownership, prioritize high-impact technology investments, and create structured collaboration between IT and business teams make smarter financial decisions and prevent unnecessary roadblocks.
Successful IT-Business partnerships depend on clear communication and shared goals
When IT and business teams operate in sync, they build scalable, data-driven, and consumer-focused eCommerce operations. Key strategies for achieving this collaboration include:
- Defining Data Ownership: Establishing clear governance ensures the right teams have access to the right information.
- Maintaining Open Communication: Regular cross-functional meetings strengthen alignment and streamline decision-making.
- Showcasing IT’s Business Impact: IT teams should proactively share how technology initiatives drive revenue and efficiency.
- Prioritizing Consumer-Centric Innovation: Every IT initiative should enhance the consumer experience and business performance.
By committing to these principles, companies remove friction, accelerate execution, and build a more agile eCommerce business.
Learn more about creating harmony between IT and Business teams
Companies that integrate IT and business strategies move faster, reduce inefficiencies, and create better consumer experiences. Learn how leading brands are breaking down silos and driving success.
To learn more, download the full report from MikMak and the Digital Shelf Institute to explore real-world examples, proven collaboration models, and actionable insights. Further, watch a recent discussion on this topic: download our recent Webinar with MikMak, DSI, and PetMate to hear industry leaders discuss how brands can build stronger, more collaborative IT-business relationships.
