Step one in improving IT management is to form an IT steering committee that can bridge the worlds of IT and the business. This committee would typically be made up of internal executives with an interest in IT's success who also have influence within the company to promote change.

"Most often the committee is made up of the CEO and his or her direct reports," says Baschab, "but can also include other influential leaders within the company."

The steering committee should serve as a "virtual CIO" to provide advice to the CIO and quickly resolve issues between the business and IT. The committee should also be responsible for hiring the IT management staff, and making sure a real manager is in charge, not just a senior programmer, says Baschab.

"Cleaning up the IT org chart is the best place to start," he adds. "There should be no floating boxes and clear lines of responsibility."