In today's do-more-with-less business environment, technology is emerging as the primary driver of efficiency and profitability. It's an ever-evolving area of your business that, in the right hands, can provide a strong competitive advantage. How does your technology service provider measure up?
1) Doesn’t speak techno-babble
Can your IT service provider explain, in plain English, how technology fits into your business? The technology industry has its own specialized vocabulary that is nonsensical to outsiders. If you don’t understand what’s being proposed, you may end up with a solution that is either too sophisticated or too limited for your business.
2) Has sufficient resources
Is your provider adequately staffed to meet your needs? Many will sub-contract projects to fill gaps but if they don’t have in-house expertise, you may not get timely support or follow-up service. It’s important that your IT service provider has technical staff on the payroll.
3) Views technology as a business enabler
Does your provider truly understand your business? Gaining a competitive advantage through technology requires in-depth knowledge of your business. A strategic technology partner adds value by putting systems in place that remove roadblocks and help you to achieve goals, such as increasing productivity, enhancing customer service, cutting costs, and mitigating risks.
4) Has an established track record
Does your provider have a solid track record? Before engaging in a new project, be sure that your service provider has experienced good results in a similar project. Technology is always evolving but the fundamentals of effectively managing IT projects are one of the cornerstones of success.
5) Good rapport
Do you feel comfortable discussing your business? An IT consultant can play a key role in your business – from streamlining day-to-day processes to helping you get to the next level – if you are open to exploring solutions together. It’s important to have a good rapport with the person who can translate your business needs into technology solutions.
Takeaway – Hand off your technology strategy and focus on what you do best
If you answered ‘no’ to more than one question, you may not be getting full value from your IT service provider. Ideally, you’ll have access to experts with a blend of up-to-the-minute IT expertise and practical business acumen to help you gain a competitive edge and keep your team performing at its highest level.
| Next month's article |
| Unlock your sales potential in 2013 (part 1): removing roadblocks |
| Do your salespeople complain that they spend too much time on paperwork and research? Are they frustrated by marketing campaigns that don't hit the mark? Remove the roadblocks and head into 2013 with a real-time view of sales team productivity, progression toward targets, and marketing metrics. |
| Article coming November 30 - enter your email address in the Stay Informed box on the right to automatically receive it. |