So what do I mean by “Business Technology?” Business Technology is the space that exists and, the role/ responsibilities within that domain, between the end business users and the I.T. department. Put more directly it’s the rapidly evolving function of aligning real-world business needs with technology.

Typically the role is to understand the goals and vision of the business as well as the existing processes in place and then to develop and strategy and roadmap for the business to move from the “as is” to the “to be” developed by the Business Technologist (titles are all over the board!). Once accomplished the Business Technologist (B.T.) is responsible for working directly with I.T. and/ or outsourcing, consulting firms to execute the roadmap and deliver the solutions to allow the business to accomplish its business objectives.

Why is this domain the best place to be? Two reasons:

1. Increasingly business has grown weary of the disconnect between the end business and I.T. Both sides are equally at fault so the bottom line is how do you solve this? Increasingly through departments (“Business Solutions,” “Business Technology,” Technical Strategy”) or groups whose sole purpose is to identify the need, the gaps and plan the strategy to get the company there.
2. People with the talent to understand both sides of the equation (business and I.T.) are in short supply and have been for awhile (CIO magazine's article, "Hot Jobs".
3. You can’t outsource business knowledge (Job Security)!

If you’re earlier in your career, look at developing your career towards Business Analyst. If you’ve moved into leadership roles, seek out opportunities to move beyond your comfort range and work directly with the business. It’s never too late until it’s too late…