Create a Plan

• Make a list of everything that you need technology to do for you in your business operations. Leave nothing out, even it if seems too small or insignificant. The list will serve as a check-off to help ensure that you get everything you need and nothing more. It is easy to become distracted by the latest cool technological advance, but does it really have relevance to your needs?
  
  Next, prioritize those needs in order of importance. This is where you will begin to see what the most important technology elements are for you. You can begin to build a strategy to fill these needs from here.
  
  

Choose the Right Tools

• Make technology fit your business and operations, not the other way around. If you obtain something that is only partially right for you, then you are wasting money. Sometimes there is no good or best solution. Do not settle for second best if it will not help you reach your goals of customer service and profitability. You might just need to keep looking. One of the best ways to see what will work for businesses in your industry is to read periodicals that chronicle the events and happenings of other businesses like yours. You may often find another business using something that can benefit yours as well.
  
  

Make Technology Work

• Now, map out your implementation strategy by reviewing where and how you will use these technological solutions. Put it down on paper and view it as a map. Obtain input from the various people in your organization that this technology will affect. They have a perspective that often is overlooked. Make decisions with the whole company in mind.
  
  

Look to Affordable Solutions

• The most expensive solution is not always the best solution. Technology costs a lot of money, but there are ways of getting what you need for less money by looking at multiple vendors and their offerings. Important considerations here are total cost of ownership, the type of business in which the technology will be used and the environment in which it will reside. If you have a manufacturing business with high wear and tear, then a more robust solution might be in order.
  
  You cannot make wise choices without wise planning. Take your time and work through issues before they become impediments to your business. This means meeting head-on with opposition to determine if it is legitimate or just resistance to change.
  
  Remember that creating a plan, using the right tools, making technology work for you and finding affordable solutions will form the backbone of your efforts to manage your company IT strategies.