What is Holistic Technology?

The biggest challenge to running any business is realizing that every decision you make can have a ripple effect on other aspects of your business.  This is especially true with technology.  Not only must a business leader determine which hardware, software, or technology option is right for the business, but they must also understand how these technologies will integrate with existing workflows, systems, and processes.  This is the crossroads where many business owners turn to a technology advisor for a holistic approach to technology.  Let’s explore.

A Holistic Approach to Technology

In medicine, we all understand the concept of holistic medicine – namely that one medical decision can impact all parts of the body, mind, and spirit.  So, these medical decisions are made carefully, with consideration for every other medication, health condition, or ailment of the patient.  But, when it comes to technology, most businesses make buying decisions based on an immediate problem, rather than a holistic approach.  This approach can present a number of challenges for the business, not the least of which, is the all-consuming process that takes tremendous time and resources away from the business leader(s).  A holistic approach is much more effective when it comes to making decisions about your business’ technology. Here is an example that demonstrates the approach.

A Case Study in Technology Purchases

Let’s say your organization needs a new phone system.  Your goal is to better serve your customers while accommodating a hybrid workforce. You enlist organizations who sell telephony services and equipment and they each make their pitch for their product or service.  While they may be solution-oriented, they are certainly not holistic.  After all, their job is to sell you something, right?  A few weeks down the road, after interviewing multiple vendors and countless hours researching, you finally decide to move forward with a VOIP system from Vendor A.

After the setup and training process is complete, you realize that while the VOIP system solves your immediate need, it is creating some new challenges. There are some integration issues with existing software.  There are some cloud-based delay issues.  Your team is missing calls and unable to forward voicemails to the appropriate team member.  In addition, the software seems to be network intensive or is impacting individual user laptops, negatively.  Inbound calls are going to voicemail inadvertently and/or screen pops are not occurring because the system isn’t properly integrating with your existing CRM.

Now, the business leader (or their poor designee) is spending inordinate amounts of time trying to fix all the ripple effect issues.  In this example, you can see that one technology purchase can impact multiple areas of your business quickly.  A more practical, holistic approach would be to delegate the task to someone who has the technical knowledge and expertise to make a more informed recommendation, particularly regarding your existing systems and operations.  And, let’s face it, you’re not going to get that kind of expertise from any salesperson.

Technology Advisors

Technology advisors serve as strategic partners and solve these types of technology challenges every day.  They are up to speed on the latest technologies, potential bugs, and your overall goals and expectations.  Many businesses rely on a technology consultant to make these kinds of decisions because:

1. They are intimately familiar with your organizational structure and processes,
2. They understand your desired client experience,
3. They work to understand the initial pain point and all of the surrounding processes that can be impacted,
4. They understand your annual budgets, cost tolerance, and desired goals,
5. They can assist with proper integration between new and existing software, equipment, and IT infrastructure.
6. They do this kind of work every day – it’s their job.

Most business owners, CEOs, or even CIOs don’t have the time (and sometimes expertise) to effectively make these decisions, much less oversee the implementation process.   This is where a technology partner can be invaluable.  If you’re looking for a knowledgeable technology advisor, Conscious Networks is here to help.  Contact us today to schedule a consultation.