Manual Processes Can Slow Organizational Momentum – Friday Distraction
Just because we use a computer to process something doesn’t mean it’s high tech. A great example is today’s Time Well Spent from our friends at Kronos. While spreadsheets are created on computers, that doesn’t mean they’re the most effective and efficient way of doing something.
It’s time for us to realize that technology comes in levels. There’s the word processing and spreadsheet level. Then there’s the software solution level – an applicant tracking system would be an example. And finally, there’s the newer level of artificial intelligence and machine learning. Each level has their advantages and opportunities.
Organizations need to spend dedicated time thinking about which level of technology is going to help them accomplish their goals. Because it’s possible that choosing the wrong one could hold the organization back.
Look for signs that current technology isn’t doing everything it should. While it’s designed to be funny, I could see someone actually saying the line in today’s comic. And in many organizations, it might get laughed off. It’s time to take these comments seriously. An upgrade might be in order to avoid manual processes.
Give the organization plenty of time to upgrade. I don’t blame technology companies for announcing that they will be discontinuing support for old software and hardware. It’s the nature of business. What’s supposed to happen is that organizations are given enough notice to put plans in place. Upgrading takes time but they need to be done.
The answer isn’t always the latest version. When organizations need to upgrade, sometimes it makes sense to upgrade to the latest version. However, sometimes it makes sense to simply upgrade a little. Especially if the upgrade is expensive. The organization can use the time to get adjusted to the change and build up resources.
As organizations make technology decisions, they need to consider their long-term needs and avoid those manual processes. I remember when Mr. Bartender and I purchased our last computers. We had a conversation with the sales representative who was very honest about the length of time we would want to keep our equipment (before looking at new models). We keep that information top of mind as we’re planning our budget and other purchases.
Technology is a great thing and it allows us to meet our business goals. But we have to choose the right technology for the job.
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