Technology is constantly changing, and it’s easy to get swept up in wanting the newest gadget or software. But having the latest and greatest tech doesn’t matter if your employees don’t actually need it or won’t use it.
Focusing on your teams’ needs is more important than chasing after the newest technology.
It’s a fine line to embrace technology without blindly chasing every new release. Finding that balance to provide your teams with the innovative technology they need and will use moves your company forward.
Here are three ways to focus on the right technology:
Run a technology audit
An annual audit forces you to look at the big picture. Once a year, take a step back and evaluate your current technology. Look at the tools your teams use and how they use them. Identify what is and isn’t working with technology, including bottlenecks that could be improved or processes that could be streamlined with new technology.
Collect data
Just because you give employees new technology doesn’t mean they’ll use it. The best technology decisions involve employees. Gather their insights and perspectives about what tools they need and what could be improved. Then follow up and see if the new technology is effective or if you need to make other adjustments.
Have a practical perspective
Choosing the right technology can be overwhelming. Instead of getting distracted by what’s new, adopt a practical mindset as you look at what is useful and adds value to your company. The practical tools might not be the flashiest, but they have the biggest impact on how work gets done.
Technology is a cornerstone of any modern organization. It requires continual evaluation to ensure your teams have the right tools and are actually using them. Don’t take it for granted or assume you need every new item. Find the balance between caring about new technology and focusing on what your teams need.
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Over the last 15 years, I’ve had the privilege of speaking and working with some of the world’s top leaders. Here are 15 of the best leadership lessons that I learned from the CEOs of organizations like Netflix, Honeywell, Volvo, Best Buy, The Home Depot, and others. I hope they inspire you and give you things you can try in your work and life. Get the PDF here.
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