Building and Protecting Your Business with Technology

ERIC SHEEHAN

Principal

Olsen Technologies

esheehan@ottechnologies.com

Topic: Technology

Entrepreneurs by definition are people that are creative, have vision, have strong initiative, and have an appetite for risk. These are all vital characteristics to start and build a successful business. Technology plays a vital role in launching and growing a business. It is important for entrepreneurs to understand how to leverage IT infrastructure to be competitive and win in this global economy while at the same time protecting your most significant asset, your business.

Too often with small companies IT becomes more of a reactive need than a proactive plan. Just as you planned your business model and launched your business, it is important for you to make sure you are proactive with your IT plan as well. Without a proactive plan small companies tend to make poor buying decisions, implement ineffective tools and applications, and often experience high levels of frustration along with ongoing expenses and changes. All these can be mitigated or even eliminated with a proactive plan.

IT infrastructure is far more than having computers and printers connected together inside your office. A lot of business is conducted by leveraging the internet to communicate with the outside world. This means opportunity and risk. A robust internet protocol (IP) network is a good starting point making it easier for you to implement new cost saving technologies, communicate with your customers, allow your employees to be more productive, and streamline security to protect your business.

Small companies tend to have limited budgets and expertise in the areas of IT. As a result you should seek out IT experts to help you develop a solid IT foundation that can provide you with what you need today and will scale as your business grows. Working with consultants, value added resellers, or even a knowledgeable friend can pay huge dividends for your business both today and well into the future.

When selecting a technology partner, be sure they are knowledgeable and have experience of how IT impacts all areas of your business. Areas you should be discussing include: network design, internet service provider, website, security, backup/disaster recovery planning, IT support or managed services, and business applications such as automated accounting and customer relationship management (CRM) systems. These are all technology components that are going to make your business more effective and increase your chances for success and growth.

There are a lot of choices in the market place. Be smart and look for a company that understands your business needs and will be proactive in advising you on all of your technology investments and how they will impact your business. Having a solid technology plan with a reputable and knowledgeable consultant isn’t just a good idea, it’s the basis for a successful business in the competitive global world we are all in today.

2010-03-07 01:00:00 -0500

2010-07-26 08:22:25 -0600