CEOs should seize iPad opportunities

A new report from Gartner says that the iPad and its ecosystem are likely to disrupt existing technology use profiles and business models, and that CEOs should ensure its potential is being seriously evaluated inside their organisations.

“It is not usually the role of the CEO to get directly involved in specific technology device decisions, but Apple's iPad is an exception,” said Stephen Prentice, Gartner VP. “It is more than just the latest consumer gadget; and CEOs and business leaders should initiate a dialogue with their CIOs about if they have not already done so.”

Gartner believes worldwide media tablet sales to reach 19.5 million units in 2010, driven by the iPad.

Worldwide sales are projected to total 54.8 million units in 2011, up 181% from 2010. Gartner says they’ll surpass 208 million units in 2014.

Gartner recommends that IT organisations should provide at least "concierge"-level iPad support for a limited number of key users, and prepare a budgeted plan for widespread support of the iPad by mid-2011.

“Individuals are willing to buy these devices themselves, so enterprises must be ready to support them,” said Prentice. “While some IT departments will say they are a ‘Windows shop’, and Apple does not support the enterprise. Organisations need to recognise that there are soft benefits in a device of this type in the quest to improve recruitment and retention. Technology is not always about productivity.”