Should IT personnel be involved in the decision-making of short/long term plans of an organization?

Question

What are the advantages/disadvantages?

Answer 1

I'm guessing this is an accounting class question? Advantages - see Richard's answer. Also IT will know current deficiencies, the timing of a need for system upgrades, the specs for the upgrades and a long term technical strategy to remain competitive, assure security.... The disadvantage could be that the IT department may not have the overall company's goals in mind in the sense that they may push for the fastest, cutting edge system but the costs may be prohibitive for the company as a whole (opportunity costs).

Answer 2

IT can drive your business up or down.
If you have plans for expansion, IT will play a major role in determining what is needed to allow communication within the organization.
It also controls how data is handled and distributed.
Do you want your data hacked and a competitor to have your customer data because IT didn't have the tools to properly protect it? Or have your customers identity stolen by hackers?
With the current rush to put everything on-line, you will need ITs input to determine what and how to implement your on-line strategy.

Answer 3

Gawd no. IT people will have you spending millions of dollars on junk that you don't understand, don't need and will never make you a dime. They're more evil than mimes.