Tech systems have become a crucial aspect of our lives in today's digital age. They’ve become indispensable tools for organizations to achieve their goals and objectives, from automating manual processes to streamlining business operations.
However, not all technology systems are created equal. Some are highly effective, delivering value and meeting business requirements, while others are frustrating, unreliable and ultimately costly to the organization. So, what makes a technology system highly effective?
The seven habits of highly effective tech systems
1. Solutions are built with end-users in mind.
No more building systems that tech people can use (unless it’s for tech people!) Regular people don’t use systems as tech people do, so make sure you use user-centred design principles. That means understanding exactly who it’s for, making it easy to use and intuitive to meet their needs.
2. Systems are built to take on more.
It’s more effective for your system to grow than to have to replace it. As your organization grows and adapts to the ever-changing world of technology, it's important to ensure your technology systems can grow with it.
3. Apps aren’t going to let you down when you need them the most.
A technology system that's up and running during your most critical hours is key to success. Most systems need downtime to perform upgrades, reset or backup data. This should happen in planned maintenance windows and at a time that has the least impact on the organization. A technology system that's up and running during the most critical hours is essential to ensure that business operations are not disrupted.
4. Tech systems talk to each other.
Technology systems that play nicely together (i.e. pass data in a reasonable timeframe, amongst other things) and are supported by clear processes within your organization can make all the difference. This helps to break down data silos and increase overall efficiency, making it easier for everyone to do their jobs.
5. The applications are people-pleasers.
Not the other way around. Tech is here to help us, not have us bend over backwards to fit in their ways of doing things. A flexible technology system that can adapt to changing business requirements is crucial for success. It should be easy for organizations to add or modify new features as their needs change, so they can continue to operate efficiently.
6. Systems keep all your secrets safe.
Online safety is key, from seamless communication between different systems to implementing strong security measures to protect sensitive data. Cybersecurity threats have become increasingly prevalent, and systems must take necessary steps to protect against unauthorized access.
7. Systems have a growth mindset.
Technology is constantly advancing, and organizations are continuously evolving to keep up with these changes. As a result, it is crucial for their technology systems also to have the ability to grow and develop alongside the company. This includes not only being able to manage a growing amount of data but also having the capacity to perform more complex tasks and improve their capabilities.
Understanding that not all technology solutions are a one-size-fits-all approach is crucial. It's not enough to simply choose software based on its advertised features and capabilities. It's essential to consider how the software will integrate with your existing technology environment and how your organization's people and processes will support it. This can make or break the effectiveness of the technology system.
When it comes to effective tech solutions, having well-defined and streamlined processes can significantly impact their overall success. Unnecessary steps and cumbersome processes can lead to inefficiencies and decreased adoption rates. That's why It's important to evaluate your organization's processes and identify areas that can be improved to support the technology system you choose.
By assessing how people and processes will interact with your technology systems, you can ensure that you choose the best solution for your organization. This will help improve efficiency, boost productivity and ultimately drive success.