Unlock Budget Without Cutting Corners

📄 The CIO’s Cost Takeout Playbook

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CIOs are being asked to do more with less — driving innovation, securing operations, and enabling growth — all while budgets remain flat or shrinking. Yet, hidden within your current IT estate lies untapped value.

The CIO’s Cost Takeout Playbook gives you five strategic, high-impact plays to release budget without disrupting performance or derailing innovation. This isn’t about slashing spend — it’s about funding what matters most, with what you already have.

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What You'll Learn:

  • How to surface and unlock value hidden in legacy contracts and systems

  • Ways to fund innovation without asking for more budget

  • Approaches to maintain board alignment and build cross-functional credibility

  • Play-by-play guidance to move quickly without compromising control

  • Practical strategies tailored for CIOs navigating cost pressure, AI adoption, or operating model shifts

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main focus of the playbook?

The playbook focuses on providing strategic plays for CIOs to unlock budget within their organisations without sacrificing innovation or control.

Who is this playbook for?

This playbook is designed specifically for CIOs who are navigating cost pressures while driving innovation and transformation agendas. Whether you're scaling AI initiatives, modernising legacy estates, or seeking budget efficiencies, these plays are built for you.

What unique insights does the playbook offer?

Unlike reactive cost-cutting guides, this playbook presents five proven plays drawn from real-world CIO engagements. It includes insights from Step5 Managing Director, Justin Narracott, on strategic reinvestment, portfolio rationalisation, and maximizing commercial leverage.

How can this playbook benefit my organisation?

By applying the strategies outlined, your organisation can maintain board confidence, fund innovation, and improve financial and operational efficiency.