When it comes to evolving tech at my company, I’ve seen it all. Every six months I find myself rethinking how we operate because of some new phone, gadget or software update. Even though I don't purchase the latest phone model every six months -- which has saved hundreds of dollars -- I have learned that what works at home doesn't always translate to the office.
Many employees carry around two phones; just as many people have both business and personal computers. That means employers constantly monitor use, spending, upgrades and repairs. It can be confusing for employers to know which tech to adopt and which to pass over.
Keeping Up With The Electronic Joneses
Employers need to stay updated on the latest tech to maintain company relevance -- especially while companies are forced to protect themselves from evolving threats. Sometimes that means free updates from Microsoft. Other times, it means a new building alarm system, new computers or a new security installation.
As technology ages, it becomes easier for hackers to exploit. And someone is always itching to crack the code. Whether it's a physical or electronic intrusion, the business becomes exposed either way.
But sometimes the biggest threat isn't from an actual individual. For instance, when my wife worked at the Home Shopping Network in Florida, the company had multiple broadcast locations in the area to make sure that hurricanes and severe weather wouldn’t take the network off the air. Tech-centered businesses must be ready to respond to emergencies -- because even insurance can't buy back your time.
Technology can make the difference between growth and stagnation -- even when things are going well. Top talent expects top tools and training. If you can only offer employees outdated laptops and paper timecards, everyone from developers to designers will run the other way.
Follow these tips to stay informed on the latest solutions to avoid falling back into the business tech Stone Age:
1. Attend Relevant Conferences
What better way to keep up with tech than to see it for yourself? Attend conferences that are geared toward businesses, technology and industry-specific fields. If you work in HR, try attending a few conferences and talking to some of the personnel software vendors. Their booths will offer introductory experiences to help you see what’s new in niche tech.
Budget to attend these events at the beginning of the year. Make a list of the conferences that interest you the most, and then pick the ones you know will be relevant. It's important to know when to attend and when to send a surrogate. It’s nice to keep the office running in person, but it’s easier to understand the benefits of new tech if you see it yourself.
2. Subscribe To Digital And Print Media
Subscribe to industry publications and tech publications for businesses. Look at magazines, blogs, books, online publications and other platforms where knowledgeable professionals share their insights.
Ask respected colleagues and mentors where they get their information -- especially because they are likely to be dealing with similar challenges. Pick a few keywords, like “latest technology for marketing firms," and use those in your search to stay abreast of the latest trends.
3. Stay In Touch With Connections
Maintain open communication among people in the same industry to see what new technologies are making their lives easier. I have several friends who work in fields related to my industry, and we make a point to meet throughout the year to share insight and advice across fields. These conversations are essential for me: They let me learn about my friends' challenges and successes and allow me to vent my frustrations to people who know what it’s like — and who might also know the solution.
Don’t let conference connections fizzle out. Set a calendar date every quarter to email, text or call a few key people. The networking game never stops, so be sure to send the quarterly company newsletter to contacts when catching up. This group can keep you updated on the latest tech trends and promote beneficial partnerships in other areas. Alert the group to any job openings and business needs, and invite others to do the same.
4. Don’t Just Buy -- Subscribe
Subscriptions help keep you cutting edge -- without the headache of large regular purchases. If employees carry business phones, try working with major carriers to strike a deal for a better rate or upgraded plan. Wireless carriers are more competitive than ever, and large business accounts demand high levels of attention.
Be sure to review corporate policies and employee needs before the latest phone release -- then evaluate how you can meet those needs. Ask to be notified of special offers and news. Try setting calendar reminders so that when it’s time to upgrade, you don’t spend months fiddling with a device that's past its prime. Do the same for security services, computer providers and other solutions that keep your company running.
Technology might not slow down this year, but you don’t have to exhaust yourself racing to keep up. Read the news, mingle with the professionals and talk to colleagues to stay ahead of the latest in business technology.
