Blog Post: Business Second Language: Technology

In business, is always an asset to speak more than one language. Managers, human resources professionals and even the president of an organization need to be fluent in the language of technology. Otherwise the growth of your business and working environment may be in the hands of the IT department.

Like most of you, I depend on technology to conduct business - from my communications with clients and colleagues (e-mail, phone, cell phone, Internet access), to the sharing of information (PDF, Google documents, Internet access, copiers, and even e-faxes, graphics, photos, etc) , access to the office, equipment, and of course the use of software for everyday management of information, tasks and projects. Needless to say, when something goes wrong, I scream for help!

Random changes in the technical infrastructure of your business may go unnoticed or may disrupt the productivity of your team. So, what can you do?

• Familiarize your IT team with the roles and responsibilities of each position in your business. This will help enormously while evaluating software, levels of access, and of course, cost-saving measures being considered by the IT Department.
• Ask questions. Familiarize yourself with general technology terms, software programs, be informed and ready to ask questions. The responsibility of the decision maker in a business is also to be well-rounded and versed in different areas so that the most appropriate and educated decision is made. Limited knowledge will force the business leadership to blindly trust the suggestions of the "IT specialist" who may or may not fully understand the business implications.
• Bring your IT person to the table. Whether your business has a fully-staff IT Department or works with a consultant, it is important to bring this element to the decision making process. This way the business decision benefits from their expertise without jeopardizing the effectiveness of your team.
• When all else fails, take the time to know your IT Team. Take the person out for lunch, coffee and set the pace for success. Technology is an essential aspect of any business. Be on top of the game and your business will grow.