What to Expect in Your First 90 Days with a Fractional CIO
Starting off with a Fractional CIO can feel like a big step, especially if your business hasn’t had someone in that role before. Whether you're leading a small company or trying to scale up, a part-time Chief Information Officer can bring valuable experience without the full-time cost. Organizations like Innovation Vista often work with businesses in this situation. So, what can you expect during the first 90 days?In the first month, your Fractional CIO will spend time learning how your business works. They’ll ask questions about your current tech, business goals, staff responsibilities, and any problems you’re facing. This isn’t just about hardware and software — it's also about how your team works with technology and where they might need better tools or support.
During this time, the CIO will also start building relationships with your staff. They might meet one-on-one with key team members to understand how things run from different angles. This helps them see what’s working, what’s not, and where there could be room for improvement.
By the second month, your CIO will probably start sharing some quick wins — small changes that can make things better right away. These could be improvements to IT processes, cheaper tools, or improved security steps. You might also hear early ideas about longer-term plans, like upgrading systems or training staff.
The third month is often when clearer plans start to form. Your Fractional CIO will begin working on a roadmap — a simple outline that shows where your tech strategy can go next. This might include goals like better communication tools, more automation, or improved customer experiences. They'll also help you set priorities and break things down into manageable steps.
By the end of the 90 days, you should feel more confident about where your business stands with technology. The CIO’s role isn’t just about fixing things — it’s about helping you use tech better to reach your goals. They’ll show you what’s worth focusing on now and what can wait.
Even though they won’t be with you full-time, a good Fractional CIO can make a big difference by offering steady guidance, clear planning, and honest advice. Over time, this partnership can help your business do more with less — and aim higher without feeling overwhelmed.