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Getting the right IT is just the first step. Appropriate training, policies and working practices can help you maximise return on your IT investment.
Managing your company's technology effectively and making wise IT purchasing decisions will help set your business up for success.
However, too many organisations spend cash on new IT equipment which is poorly chosen. Many more waste effort fixing problems which could have been avoided through good business IT management.
There are a number of reasons for taking a structured approach to purchasing and managing IT in your business:
The most common IT management mistake is to start with the technology. Rather than get caught up in the latest gadgets and cutting edge kit, it's important to take a step back and consider your business plan.
Technology represents a significant investment for your business - both in money and in time. To maximise that investment, you need to be sure the technology you choose is going to help achieve your business objectives.
At the most basic level, you must always consider whether a proposed investment in new IT equipment, software or services will benefit your company. To do this, construct a clear set of IT requirements, describing what you want to do with your IT system.
It's easier to buy and manage technology inside a clear structure, with strong business leadership.
Make sure someone in your business is responsible for overseeing IT management. They must understand your business plan and objectives so they can make recommendations appropriately.
If you are not fulfilling this role yourself, make sure the people who are, have sufficient authority to put together a procurement plan, IT budget and maintenance procedures. Their job isn't just to place an order when you say you need a new laptop; they should be able to improve how your business manages its technology.
Whoever is in charge of your IT management should have some IT expertise. You will also need to give them the time stay up-to-date with changes in the IT industry (after all, taking advantage of a new technology early could give you a competitive advantage).
It's usually a good idea to turn to external partners for assistance and information. One of the best sources of advice can be a good IT supplier. If your business lacks in-house expertise, it's particularly important you build a good relationship with them.
Technology can be quite expensive, but what many businesses fail to realise is that ongoing management costs can dwarf the purchase price of a piece of IT equipment.
Subscription-based cloud services and software mean the days of big, one-off purchases are a thing of the past. Companies now pay monthly fees for the technology they use.
All this means that budgeting is important. When planning your IT purchases and management, create and maintain an IT budget which makes provision for IT expansion, maintaining existing systems and replacing obsolete equipment.
Good IT management means not viewing your IT budget in isolation. Technology is a crucial part of your business infrastructure, so your IT management needs to tie in with your overall company budget and business plan.
