Another big issue will be to protect consumer privacy or risk losing their loyalty. Something companies cannot afford in a weak economy. I tell CFOs to outsource corporate security audits and plans. This is a very specialized area. Don't let the in-house IT team turn security into a life long project.

CFO.com: What are your views on the future of physical security?

Canton: CFOs should take a hard look at installing security that uses biometrics. At least 90 percent of the companies I work with are unprepared to upgrade physical security measure — too many CFOs are in denial about security precautions, even in light of September 11.

CFO.com: Will the CFO's role change over the next five years?

Canton: There will be a dramatic shift in the role of the CFO. The finance chief will emerge as the business forecaster — or futurist. In addition, more CFOs will step into the CEO role because of their holistic, yet anchored, view of the enterprise. Technology will enable this future, making the new-era CFO a key leader.

CFO.com: Any words of advice for CFOs about the new year?

Canton: If they haven't already, create a plan to monetize the value of information technology, rethink your role, create a future plan that is tech-enabled, learn to secure the enterprise, embrace the real-time enterprise, and get to know the blue-haired, body-pierced set that runs the IT department. It will make a difference.

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