So, you’re thinking about investing in some new technology. Is the decision to buy one you’ll look back on happily, or with regret?
Obviously, the answer is going to depend a lot on your situation, the hardware or software you might buy, and your budget. However, here are seven questions you can use to steer your thinking in the right direction…
#1 What Will the New Tech Actually Do?
There are probably a lot of things that a salesperson or advertisement will promise you when it comes to a new piece of technology, but what does it actually do? What are the core functions that will be added, and how would they impact your business in a day-to-day sense?
#2 Does It Fill an Actual Business Need?
It’s very easy to find yourself buying new technology simply because it’s fun, interesting, or even visually attractive. However, that’s not what good business decisions are built on. So ask yourself whether the new hardware or software you are considering fills a real need for your company. If it doesn’t, then re-consider your motivations for the investment.
#3 Is the Technology Proven?
A new piece of technology is only helpful to your business if it works the way it is supposed to. However, a lot of tech is sold with bugs, and many unproven apps and devices carry large price tags. That’s why it’s important to do your homework and be sure that what you’re buying actually functions in a stable and predictable way.
#4 Are There More Affordable Alternatives?
It’s very frequently the case that new tech is expensive, but more reliable options (sometimes a version or two behind) are available at a drastically lower cost. Don’t get caught paying a high sticker price for something you don’t really need, particularly when a more cost-effective alternative is the better one.
#5 What Other Hardware or Software Will Be Affected?
In some cases, investing in one piece of hardware-software will mean making changes in other configurations, as well. For example, many clients find that Apple products tend to function best in an environment with other Apple products. You should know that and keep an eye on the total cost of any upgrades you might be considering.
#6 How Does It Impact Your Data Security?
This is usually a minor point when considering new technology, but it’s worth considering. If what you’re looking at is used, or unproven, try to think through the data security implications. The last thing you want is to spend money and create more risks.
#7 What Does Your IT Provider Say?
Ideally, you would be working with a good IT vendor who can give you the answers to all of these questions and more based on your specific goals and business environment. Upgrading your tech can be a great way to add more to your business, but big tech investment decisions aren’t ones you’ll typically want to make entirely on your own.
Get the Smart, Customized IT Advice You Need
Want to be able to move forward more confidently when making decisions about buying, repairing, or using new technology? If so, now is a great time to talk to the Los Angeles-based team at Fantastic IT. We are an industry leader, one of the region’s fastest-growing companies, and an IT award winner for a reason.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and see how we can help!