Ever try to take a trip without a plan? Do you get in your car and have a destination in mind without a planned route or directions?
Do you use GPS? Do you ignore the directions and go the opposite way?
When you go grocery shopping, do you buy random items and then try to figure out how to put everything together into a meal?
Why would you do that in your business then? Why buy unnecessary tools and software for your business without a plan in place?
The purpose of a defined technology strategy is to know and understand what you need for your business and optimize your money and tools. It is the overall plan relating to the use of technology for your company. The plan consists of your company’s objectives, principles, and tactics related to that technology.
Now, you might be thinking, “I don’t need a technology strategy; my business is small.” To that, I say BULL! As a small business, some could argue that you need a technology strategy the most! Knowing the direction you are taking in your business can help you identify what technology you need.
Where to start
So, where do you start with a technology strategy? The best place to start is by performing a business assessment. The assessment will bring awareness and clarity in what technology and workflow your business needs. With that clarity, you can design a technology plan.
Taking the time to design a technology plan helps cut through all the noise and shiny objects of software and available tools. Think of it this way – if you were planning to travel from Alaska to Florida by plane, you wouldn’t spend time mapping the best route for driving to New York from Texas.
It’s easy to get distracted with new and shiny tools. When we allow that to happen, we change where our focus is going, and more importantly, how our money is spent. As a small business, every dollar is essential.
Why now is a great time to start
The best time to start was yesterday; the next best day to start is today. The sooner you can get a plan in place, the sooner you can have that clarity. But it will only be impactful if you use it.
Having a technology strategy and plan in place is not something you do once a year when planning the upcoming year and then set it aside. It’s something that should be playing a big part in quarterly and monthly planning as well. And all critical players in your business should be on the same page with the plan and direction.
How we can help
If you’re not sure what to do or where to go, we can help! We know that technology can feel overwhelming and maybe even daunting. That is why we’ve launched Cyber Ready Club, a membership dedicated to educating small business owners on leveraging technology and protecting their business.