You've likely heard that technology can 'make or break' your business;
it's true
Technology has transformed how we share and access information, complete tasks, and grow a business. The idea of technology is not new; there was a time when a fork would have been cutting-edge. From the invention of the wheel, the pulley, the lock and eventually the lightbulb and the computer, we've arrived at a time when technology is exploding at a prolific rate. New apps, services and programs are being written.
With every new release, the tech landscape becomes more extensive, competitive, and challenging. We know many businesses' competitive edge is tied to the technological needle in the haystack, but what do companies stand to gain from leveraging technology?
Businesses that invest in technologies well-suited for their unique operation benefit from increased efficiency, higher time return, reduced friction, streamlined communication and faster reporting and decision-making. These businesses often outperform their competitors while crafting a more profitable, sustainable, and enjoyable company. Regarding software, teams that work with a well-connected set of apps experience significantly faster growth, even when implementing new technology. The critical thing to recognise is that these results don't happen by accident; they require a comprehensive understanding of the available technologies and how to connect them. With so many technology trends emerging, including artificial intelligence, cloud computing and the sharp increase in remote work software, the playing field is packed with potential options; this is where many business leaders make one of two mistakes.
Some embrace the status quo, persisting even when they know the tech they are using isn't efficient or operable or allowing overwhelm to deter them. Others will go it on their own, trying to make sense of technologies that require tremendous research and experience to select and implement. Both options are pitfalls that lead to frustration while wasting time and money. The financial element can't be understated; poorly-suited tech can (and does) cost a business dearly as they leak time, effort and synergy, all of which equate to tens of thousands of dollars wasted. Businesses need answers, guidance, and a trusted partner to help them change.
Enter the technology consultant; we've sometimes referred to ourselves as the 'sherpas' on the mountain of tech. A tech consultant is a master of the terrain and a skilled guide on the path to technological efficiency. In the same way that a sherpa knows the dangers and conditions of Mt Everest, we use our experience to help businesses position themselves at the summit of technology while avoiding the pitfalls many encounter on the journey. One of those pitfalls is assuming that one's existing staff are up to matchmaking the business with the best software. Often unfeasible at best and almost always detrimental, this pitfall is a time-sink best avoided. Another is depending on software vendors to steer the ship or make recommendations; this biased approach often leads to headaches.
Technology consultants come alongside a business to identify, strategise and implement highly efficient, interoperable and integrated technology to help your business make leaps and bounds.
We take an unbiased approach that assesses all the options objectively and in line with your goals while crafting a relationship of trust with the business and its leadership. We help leaders at every stage of the journey finish well and see the results they need from their technology.
We've worked with many businesses and identified three different types of companies, differing in their approach to technology.
There is the reactive business. These businesses often find themselves forced by circumstance to adapt; they change because they must or simply for survival. These businesses often lack strategy and direction in their technology or are comfortable despite alarming evidence that there's room for growth. They need someone to help them recognise and commit to change in their technology; a technology consultant can help leaders identify and start towards the summit.
There are also proactive businesses. These businesses are making changes, implementing new software and initiating change themselves. Despite good intentions, the road has sometimes become complicated, and progress has stalled or stopped entirely. They need a guide and support to help them progress, adjust, and supplement their efforts; a technology consultant helps by providing experience, strategy and implementation prowess.
Finally, there are visionary businesses. These businesses are committed to long-term technological growth and competitive performance in light of their aims. They are looking for lasting partnerships they can rely on to help them forge ahead and implement technology with precision at scale. This is where a technology consultant shines, working closely with teams and leaders to assess systems, listen to people and develop processes and integrations that drive the highest level of service.
In the NDIS space, businesses that take this approach create the best experiences for the people they serve by creating low-frictive work environments, fostering healthy communication and technology that connects, informs and performs precisely as required. Technology has always existed to unlock and empower human potential; we see it as a privilege to help businesses across Australia realise their goals and serve others.
Here at Via, we've developed a framework to help businesses like yours evaluate their technology and identify their strategy. We've helped clients move from being reactive to visionary in their thinking, increase their efficiency and save tens and hundreds of thousands of dollars in the process. If you need guidance, we'd love to be considered for your technology 'sherpa' role, and we welcome you to contact us.
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