2 surefire ways to get more value from IT

Let’s face it, IT can be costly. But if you’re not assuming a key role with your company’s IT plans, it could get worse.

It’s imperative that you have a hand in ensuring that IT is adding value to your company. Tech-finance blogger Alan Radding gave several ways to make sure IT is helping, not hurting, but here are two key suggestions:

Don’t get complacent

Technology changes very quickly, and IT can have the attitude of “If it ain’t broken, don’t fix it,” when it comes to upgrades to software and hardware. If you let inertia rule and ignore upgrades, don’t expect it to be smooth sailing down the road. Eventually support will end for older versions of software and outdated hardware. If IT’s forced to upgrade at that point, expect a loss of productivity. Bottom line: Keep up with technology.

Know the staff

The biggest chunk of IT spending comes from the staffers. Do you know your IT staff well? It’s time to start. Find out if they’re passionate about IT, the company and about opportunities to meet big-picture goals by way of technology. If they’re just going through the motions to keep the system intact, it may be time to look for new talent.

What success have you had lately that involved IT? Share your story in the comments below.