Michael Ali, chief information officer of Harman International, the maker of high-end audio and infotainment equipment, is a driven man. His role at Harman extends beyond that of a support function to provide strategic advice to the US$3.4 billion company as it continues to expand into new markets, launch new products and grow by acquisition. In a little more than a year at Harman, Ali has pushed forward efforts to bring a common technology platform and IT infrastructure to the company’s formerly decentralized business.