A spot survey indicated that five to six days of training are good enough! However, the panelists agreed that continual learning and continual education should be a way of life.

Vandana said: "You want to groom certain people, and therefore you may have identified some training program. Hence, the number of days for the training may vary."

How do you select people for training, especially in IT? What do you look for? Vandana added that obviously, the appraisal process is one such way. "There is a training need identification, which happens, during the appraisal. Two, we also conduct a lot of weekend sessions, where leaders interact. They can provide the necessary feedback."

Essential qualities of a future CIO!
The CIO panel was asked to list their wish list of qualities that should be present in any future CIO.

Nishi said: "As far as the essential qualities are concerned, a person should have the appropriate leadership qualities. Two, understanding of the business is important, as well as desire to understand the business. Taking all of these together, you can always develop an appropriate program. There is also the need for behavioral training as well."

Subramaniam added that the role of the CIO is a leadership role. "He/she needs to behave like a leader. Another skill is the ability to create change. Third is relationship building. You should be also able to build virtual relationships. Four, you should be in sync with the business and understand it as well. And last, the credibility of the particular person who you are looking to groom as a future CIO, is equally important.

Niloufer noted that CIOs also need to be self motivated as well. Jaya added that the CIOs should also be visionary and innovative in order to go far!

Finally, how do you encourage this person? Arun Gupta from Shoppers' Stop remarked from the audience: "First, put them into a shadow CIO role. Two, create an office for the budding ones. Three, challenge your own CIO: what are you going to do about me!"