This story appears in the February issue of Utah Business. Subscribe.
Companies that invest in building a robust technological foundation position themselves to adapt, innovate and thrive in an ever-changing marketplace. For Utah businesses, this readiness is not just an opportunity but an imperative.
Technology readiness means being prepared to use modern tools and strategies to move your business forward. It’s about making sure your systems and processes are up to date and ready to meet customer demands. Staying current with technology keeps your business relevant and competitive, allowing for smooth operations and efficient teamwork. When employees have the right tools, they feel more confident and capable, leading to better problem-solving and new ideas. Most importantly, having a solid technology plan means you’re better equipped to handle challenges and grow your business when the time is right.
Use these five steps to evaluate your current foundation and find areas to improve:
Assess current capabilities
Conduct a comprehensive audit of your current technology stack, including hardware, software and processes. Identify gaps and areas for improvement, then focus on strengthening those areas. In addition, evaluate whether the tech solutions you currently use are meant to optimize success for companies with your size and budget.
Prioritize cybersecurity
As businesses become more digitized, the threat landscape grows. Protecting sensitive data and ensuring robust security measures should be a top priority.
Invest in scalable solutions
Choose technologies that can grow with your business. Cloud-based platforms, for instance, offer flexibility and cost-effectiveness, enabling businesses to scale without significant up-front investments.
Foster a culture of innovation
Encourage your team to embrace change and experiment with new tools and approaches. A culture that supports innovation is more likely to adapt and thrive in the face of technological advances.
Partner with experts
Technology evolves rapidly, and staying ahead can be challenging. Collaborating with technology consultants, industry associations, and educational institutions can provide the insights and resources needed to succeed.
As you prepare your strong technology foundation, take advantage of local resources designed to help you succeed. Several local organizations associated with the Salt Lake Chamber offer resources that companies can utilize to ensure they remain competitive and forward-thinking.
In addition, Utah is home to countless businesses designed to help you succeed technologically. Please take advantage of our state’s entrepreneurial spirit and find a company here to support your growth. From Silicon Slopes to the state’s emphasis on workforce development, Utah businesses are uniquely positioned to lead the charge in technology readiness.
