Definition: CTO as a Service (CaaS) is an external technical leadership hiring model for companies that need strategic technology direction without hiring a full-time CTO. The external CTO provides senior experience in architecture, technical strategy and team management flexibly.
— Source: NERVICO, Software Development Consultancy
What is CTO as a Service
A CTO (Chief Technology Officer) defines a company's technology strategy: what to build, how to build it, with what team and what technologies. It's a strategic role, not just technical.
CTO as a Service provides access to this type of leadership without the cost and commitment of a full-time hire. The external CTO gets involved according to needs: it can be a few hours a week or intensive dedication at key moments.
What It Typically Includes
Technology Strategy
- Define the technical roadmap aligned with business objectives
- Evaluate and select technologies
- Decide between build, buy or integrate
- Plan for scalability and growth
Architecture
- Design the system architecture
- Review and improve existing architecture
- Establish standards and best practices
- Manage technical debt
Team Management
- Structure the technical team
- Define development processes
- Participate in technical hiring
- Mentor senior developers
Business Relationship
- Translate business needs into technical requirements
- Communicate technical limitations and possibilities to stakeholders
- Participate in product decisions
- Manage expectations and timelines
When It Makes Sense
Early-Stage Startups
Can't afford a senior full-time CTO, but need technical direction to make correct foundational decisions.
Companies in Transition
The current CTO has left and they need coverage while searching for a replacement, or are evaluating whether they need the role full-time.
Non-Tech Companies with Digital Projects
Traditional companies launching digital products and needing technical expertise they don't have internally.
Growing Scale-ups
The team has grown but there's no senior technical leadership. They need structure and direction before chaos scales.
What CTO as a Service is NOT
- Not development: The external CTO doesn't write product code.
- Not project management: Doesn't manage day-to-day tasks.
- Not one-off consulting: Requires ongoing involvement.
- Not staff augmentation: It's leadership, not extra hands.
How to Choose an External CTO
- Relevant experience: Has solved problems similar to yours.
- Communication ability: Can speak with technical and non-technical people.
- Strategic vision: Doesn't just know technology, understands business.
- Realistic availability: Can dedicate the time you need.
- Cultural fit: Adapts to your way of working.
Typical Working Model
- Dedication: 1-3 days per week depending on need
- Duration: Minimum 3-6 months for real impact
- Price: €3,000 - €10,000/month depending on dedication and experience
- Format: Combination of remote and on-site