Bart Perkins

The nature of IT demands clarity, and that's particularly important in requests for proposals. Unfortunately, in today's hurried world, few people take the time to make specifications clear. But fuzzy requirements create misunderstandings. They cost time, money, effort and sometimes political capital. But while RFPs are expensive to produce and review, clarity will save you money.

Most IT organizations estimate their standard infrastructure expenses based on servers, telecommunications and desktops. Few consider the cost of the electricity required to power and cool the equipment. With today

Many companies feel that their IT organizations are 'broken' or irreparably damaged, and indeed, some are. The symptoms are all too familiar: failed projects,...

Most major corporations are considering outsourcing everything from the corporate cafeteria to IT and beyond. Outsourcing is often touted as an easy way to achieve more functionality for less money, with less aggravation.

A well-written IT services contract defines many client-specific requirements. But all too often, the metrics necessary to measure and meet those requirements are glossed over during contract negotiations.

Many CIOs are reducing the number of IT suppliers they use.rnHere's a checklist to help you decide who should be on your list.

Most major corporations are considering outsourcing everything from the corporate cafeteria to IT and beyond. Outsourcing is often touted as an easy way to achieve more functionality for less money, with less aggravation.

Want to know where to begin if you're launching a program to get better leverage from your IT suppliers and in your buying processes? Start by establishing a baseline of your company's IT supplier portfolio.