Naked CIO: Proud to be working in IT

When the Naked CIO lost his job, he received an unexpected - and most welcome - reaction from readers.

In writing this column I have received many reader comments - both supporting and challenging my views.

In some cases I have struck a nerve with the technocratic elite that maintain narrow views of the types and uses of technology.

I have been called incompetent and the root cause of what is wrong with IT in our world. In response I have tried to speak out about the truths as I see them from my experience - truths that plague us professionals both in and out of the boardroom.

I also have tried to stimulate debate and provide all of us with a medium to discuss issues which resonate within our particular communities.

My motivation has been called into question based on my decision to write under an alias. Sometimes my stances have been called cowardly because I write strongly worded rhetoric under an assumed name, without the fear of reprisal.

Yet I also presume no grandeur or self promotion through my articles as some in our communities often do to enhance their career objectives.

The silicon.com editors have told me that from time to time readers enquire about the nature of my identity but as I have remained aloof they too have supported the prime directive of this column, which is to provide uncompromised opinion to stimulate debate without personal gain or misfortune.

I enjoy writing this column, in some cases specifically because it is anonymous.

I have been overwhelmed and surprised by the size of the readership. I never thought there would be so many Naked CIO followers out there - both those who disdain my opinions and those who support them.

Either way, being able to spark interest and advance thought within our community is a true honour and a distinct privilege which I do not take for granted.

Recently I have had an additional reason to be grateful for this column - and for you, my readers. Since my job loss has become the subject matter of my articles, the nature of my current challenges, similar to that which many in our industry face, have been well circulated in the public domain.

I have had notes of support and even those offering assistance in finding a new job sent through the editors to me. Comments on my articles wish me luck and ask after how I am doing.

I never ever expected to have my own support base through writing this article. The thoughts of many of you especially in these daunting times are very special to me and deserve my thanks. None of you know me personally yet you wish me well. Many of you disagree with me yet are saddened that I am out of work.

This is the greatest tribute to the IT community - the ability to rally behind those in need and support our colleagues when they need it. So please accept this tribute to you, an industry and a group of professionals who care about your fellow colleagues.

This provides us all with much needed hope and gives us reason to be proud, no matter what our circumstances, that we chose this profession.