There are generally two distinct tech environments that companies may embrace. Some technology innovators chase down every trend, purchasing all the latest “toys” as soon as they are introduced to the market. Other companies experience “analysis paralysis,” habitually unable to move forward with a new tech initiative without significant debate and negotiation. Sadly, both approaches to technology can cause businesses to make serious mistakes. Moving too impulsively while spending budget money indiscriminately may inspire confusion and financial headaches; dragging one’s proverbial feet regarding adopting new technologies can render companies behind the curve competitively.
Making intelligent technology decisions requires planning, strategy, budget, and a tech-savvy staff to assess new opportunities as they become available. Here are some of the positive ways that you can solidify your decision-making:
- Involve executives in decisions, but in a limited way: It may seem odd to take the decision-making authority from C-level executives, but those folks are typically not in a position to make decisions on tech solutions knowledgeably. Executives may not understand the potential issues at the department level – or how well this particular solution will solve the perceived problem. While technology stakeholders will need executives behind innovation initiatives, the decisions should be made primarily by those implementing the technology.
- Pay attention to existing technologies and standards: Technology departments often struggle to create and maintain documented standards and protocols regarding their installed hardware and software. If an issue arises that requires a resolution, many departments rapidly purchase new technology or develop a new strategy without evaluating their current situation and capabilities. Tech personnel may be able to troubleshoot many problems that arise utilizing current capabilities if they slow down and use the resources they already own.
- Listen closely to customer response and feedback: Technology experts can be just as guilty as executives when impulsively embracing new technologies. They recognize a problem and want to solve it quickly – so when they see a potential answer, they are tempted to move soon. However, no decisions should be made without considering the client’s input and feedback. Solving an issue internally but ignoring how it affects the customer experience is short-sighted. Remember that a “client” may be another department within your company, not only outside consumers.
- Develop multiple vendor relationships: While cultivating an exclusive relationship with a vendor is likely to provide discounts and elevate convenience, using only one vendor for all of your technology requirements could adversely impact innovation and competitiveness. Preferred vendors are understandable and beneficial – but companies should never rely on a single source. After all, alternate third parties may be some of the best tech innovators. Keeping on top of the best offerings and opportunities can guarantee more robust solutions that keep you on budget.
- Monitor relevant online forums: When there are several solutions to choose from, your company wants to make the most informed decisions via due diligence. Watching webinars and tutorials and reading industry research reports are good ways to learn more about the range of options. But tech-savvy decision-makers should also take advantage of social platforms used by other industry experts – IDGTechTalk and #CIOChat provide expert advice, truthful feedback, and alternative solutions.
Alliance IT is the Right Partner
If you are tasked with deciding on a significant technology purchase and need reliable advice, you can partner with an IT-managed services firm to help you evaluate requirements and develop solutions. The team at Alliance IT provides the expertise you need to proactively make the best decisions for your business. From tech assessments to business consulting and outsourcing- Alliance IT is the partner that Sarasota area companies need to thrive in 2024.
