Leveraging Technology

Most software and systems are vastly underutilized - usually because of a lack of training and knowledge about all of the software's features.  Closing this gap can increase efficiency and reduce the need to bring in more software.  This helps simplify your technology infrastructure and improves reliability.  Examine your existing systems and ask how well are they being used - are they underutilized? 

First, is the system working correctly?  Are there technical issues that prevent it from operating properly?  Fixing these issues will make the system easier to use, increase confidence in the system, improve reliability, and make employees more willing to investigate advanced features.

Do employees know how they are expected to use the system at your company?  Has the system been configured to your company's processes or do your processes need to be modified to take advantage of system features?  Have standardized processes and procedures for using the system been communicated to all employees?  Is more governance needed? 

Do employees know how to use the system properly?  Is more training needed?  Are refresher courses needed?

What features are available that aren't being used?  Can these features help you solve business issues?  How are other companies using this system in their operations?  Have they solved problems that your company is experiencing and, if so, how did they do that?

There will be times when a specialized system is needed to meet a specific need, but look to existing systems first.  Leveraging your existing systems can significantly increase your efficiency, increase reliability, and reduce the need to bring in new solutions. 

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