IT Mistakes to Avoid When Planning Your Business’s Future
It is not uncommon for growing businesses to find that their IT no longer yields the same returns as they had originally expected. In the past, technology was not necessarily top of mind for many business owners.
There are numerous factors that play into misshaped and outdated IT. Here are a few common ways that you can try to make sure that your business’s IT grows with you rather than you outgrow your IT.
1. Prioritize Your IT
Not prioritizing your IT is one of the most common mistakes SMB’s face. The reality is, technology is at the backbone of most businesses and should be considered in any financial or strategic planning. Technology continues to change, and planning for those changes are crucial to keep up with your businesses needs. Planning for your technology to grow with your business can help you avoid some unexpected IT expenses in the future.
2. Consider Your Specific IT Needs
It is easy to get wrapped up in the “latest and greatest” trends when making decisions to purchase new IT equipment. No two businesses are alike, and so it is important to remember that ‘NEW’ doesn’t always mean that it is RIGHT choice for you and your business’s needs.
When making decisions about new IT hardware and solutions, it is best to talk with a technology expert to gain a better understanding of the devices that are on the market and which ones will benefit your business the most. Attempting to go at it alone usually results in a snap decision to choose the shiney new solution that promises to fix all your problems. BUT in the end your problems have been masked for a short time, but the solution can’t keep up.
3. Share Your IT Plan with Your Team
Include your team when making decisions on new technology or IT policies that will affect them. By involving those who use the technology the most at your business, you will gain a better understanding of what is needed and therefore make a better decision. In addition, you never know the technological pain that your employees are in until you have the conversation. They could have needs or pain that you are unaware of. Making sure that everyone is on the same page will also assist with the transition into any new technologies, solutions or policies.
4. Train Yourself and Your Staff
Make sure that you and your staff know of all the unique functionalities behind your IT equipment. Being sure that you are utilizing your technology to its full capabilities is a great way to ensure your return on investment.
There will always be an amount of uncertainty when planning for future growth within your company. By including your IT in your business plan, you can avoid some otherwise unforeseen growing pains. Technology is ever changing, as are the needs of you business, but how do you ensure they stay aligned? MAKE A PLAN – Revisit AND Revise!
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