Have you had the internal debate of do I have it, need it and/or want it when it comes to making technology decisions? Believe me it is not uncommon and it effects those in enterprise and the SMB sector alike from a variety of backgrounds on all types technology decisions.
It could be said that the decision maker does not have a background in technology and therefore does not have the ability to make an informed decision. This is not the case, it is a matter of the approach that is taken and the resources that are available. A choice can be made to bring in a business technologist such as us at Service Desk West to consult on the project and assist with the decision. However there are times a decision must be made in-house only and this is where I want to help.
One thing I consistently see that hinders the decisions is that the focus is on the technology and not on the business needs and objectives. Whether the role is of business owner, executive, staff member or technology consultant the decision, the conversation and attention needs to start and continue with the business.
This seems obvious but it often is not done or the level it is done does not warrant making an informed decision. Start with Ask, Document, Plan and Review approach. What should you ask? Start with the basics first such as: what pain points are you addressing; what is the objective; the plans for your business in 3 – 5 years; what is your budget; is there existing in-house technology and what new technology is being considered. Starting with these types of questions will help ensure that you are making decisions based business and not the technology.
Use the mindset that technology decisions are not technology decision but business decisions that affect productivity, profits and directly impacts your time both personally and professionally.
I look forward to sharing a wide-range of articles from business technology decisions; how to information; security and protection and streamlining to work as efficiently as possible.
About Your Columnist
Francine Otterson is a featured columnist for Women Taking Charge, the official blog of Connected Women of Influence, where she covers technology and business solutions. Currently, Francine is the CEO and Chief Technologist of Service Desk West where they specialize in providing the SMB sector with full service IT support and business technology solutions.
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