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Computerworld - There's no better workplace motivator than feeling valued, and that's what IT employees at computer reseller CDW Corp. experience every day on the job, says Jon Stevens, senior vice president and CIO. For one thing, technology is truly strategic for CDW, which not only sells technology but also uses it as the lifeblood of its service to customers, through e-commerce and traditional means. "From the board of directors down, they view us as part of a team that can make the customer experience better," Stevens says.

That means IT is involved at the collaboration phase, not just at the end stage of a strategic move.

"When problems, opportunities or new business ideas arise, IT is one of the first teams the business unit comes to," Stevens says.

That, he adds, drives a real sense of ownership within the IT group.

A recent example of this is the work IT performed over the course of an upgrade to CDW's sales system. The new release included so many functional additions that usability was suffering.

Recognizing this, the development team recommended adding some self-service capabilities, which received applause from users, improved system navigation and helped increase sales productivity, according to Stevens.

CDW's IT staffers also make time for fun. They've held a chili cook-off featuring recipes from IT leaders, a video game night for workers and their families, and a Texas Hold 'Em tournament complete with trophies for winners.

Brandel is a Computerworld contributing writer. Contact her at marybrandel@verizon.net.

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