Fractional or Interim CTO
| Dimension | 60 days | 120–180 days | End or one year |
|---|---|---|---|
Decision value |
Important decisions are clearer and no longer waiting for undefined ownership |
Repeatable decision mechanisms exist |
Internal leaders can continue them |
Scope and availability |
Charter fits time and emergencies have coverage |
Scope changes are explicit rather than absorbed |
Engagement ends, narrows, or converts based on evidence |
Transfer |
Internal owner shadows and receives artifacts |
Internal capability is demonstrably stronger |
Dependency on external CTO falls |
Independence |
Recommendations show alternatives and vendor conflicts are disclosed |
Company can challenge advice and choose other providers |
No hidden commercial dependence remains |
Permanent model |
Full-time need and role design are being tested |
Search or internal succession is clear where required |
Handover is complete and incentives did not distort successor choice |