The transition from December 31st to January 1st isn’t different from any other day of the year. And yet, it feels different. We clean out the old and bring in the new. We look back in order to move forward.
While it might be something we should do more often, it’s still a good time to reset. What can you let go of? What can you do differently?
If your mind instantly went to client work or office management, add something else to the list: technology. Technology is one of the easiest things to overlook regarding future planning. Yet it can make all the difference to your growth.
Don’t bandaid your programs together or replace old technology only when it stops working. Develop a technology roadmap for the new year, and create a system that helps you get more done. (And adds safety, too!)
Step 1: Identify your goals and objectives
Most teams start with one specific goal in mind - maybe you’re ready to replace old laptops, or upgrade to a new billing system. Yet a roadmap should be all-encompassing, helping you fully define your priorities. This is where you should start asking questions like:
- What tools can we use to be more insightful, proactive, and responsive in our daily tasks?
- How can we deliver better experiences for our team and clients?
- What will it take to create a system that’s easier to do business with?
Consider this your brainstorming section. Consider getting opinions from all levels, employees, management, and clients.
Step 2: Plan for the future
The Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and other technological trends are giving many businesses a competitive edge in the way they build their companies and work with their customers. They’re using different tools to radically change every approach.
But that doesn’t mean you have to do it all at once. Why not start by creating your future plan? This gives you insight into what’s here, what works, and what’s coming. It allows you to marry up your goals with your finances, and make logical decisions on what to do next.
Technology is flexible, scalable, and able to accommodate any long-term growth. It is possible to get the most out of your investment. All you need is a plan.
Step 3: Define your needs and priorities
Every system has its own set of “like to have” and “need to have.” Some things make your life easier, while others you can’t live without.
This is your time to establish your needs from your priorities. Review your process and highlight inefficiencies. Identify any areas where your existing technology falls short. Are there areas where you need more support? Do you (or your teammates) know of areas where significant improvements could be made?
Again, brainstorming is always your best course of action. You can divide the list into needs and priorities later.
Step 4: Establish realistic timelines
When you start seeing your roadmap come together, it’s easy to start dreaming of a faster, more efficient system and taking the all-in approach. You can’t tackle everything at once. Prioritize and create a realistic schedule based on your current projects, your priorities, and your resources.
This is where it’s better to go slow - you can always speed things up. This is also where it pays to bring in outside resources to ensure you approach every step in the best, most efficient way possible.
Step 5: Create an IT steering committee
Have you ever worked on a project without a clear leader? You’re constantly bumping up against “who’s in charge”, with little getting accomplished. Individual opinions can quickly get in the way if you don’t have someone to help you move through the clutter.
An IT steering committee is built to help you pull every piece of your roadmap together and ensure you stay on target as you move forward. They are constantly analyzing approaches and changing targets as deemed necessary. This can and should be a combination of an internal resource and outside partners who have your best interests at heart.
With today’s technology changing so fast, it’s the only way to ensure you’re ready for a brighter tomorrow.
For IT Strategy, Cloud Conversion, or Help Desk Services reach out to us at Silver Linings Technology 360-450-4759.
