Why An IT Strategy Is Imperative For Holding A Competitive Advantage

By Grace Philpotts


The modern world changes so fast that even the most dedicated technology freaks struggle to keep up. New devices and software programs appear almost every day and information technology specialists have their hands full to keep their organizations on the forefront of technology. Without a comprehensive IT strategy, however, no business or organization can hope to take maximum advantage of the latest technology.

Many people think that a strategic plan is simply a list of objectives that must be achieved. This is not the case. Strategic plans are more in the realm of predicting the future and setting goals that aim to use future developments to the advantage of the organization. This entails a detailed analysis of the various environments that have an influence on the organization.

Information technology specialists have their task cut out for them. This field changes so fast that it is virtually impossible to stay up to date with new developments and plans for future developments. Many developers keep their plans secret because they do not want their competitors to get wind of new technology. However, regardless of how challenging it is to keep updated, it remains very important to maintain strategic plans for information technology departments.

Organizations that fail to keep their information technology up to date are most certainly at a disadvantage. New technology often entails new methods of marketing, faster processing of information and more economical ways of communicating. Failing to upgrade also often put organizations at a disadvantage because they become unable to share data. New devices and software are often not compatible with older versions.

Many large organizations have permanent staff that manages their information technology strategic plans. This is necessary because these plans need to be updated constantly in order to make provision for new developments or changes in the technological environment. Not organization can afford to be caught napping and that requires constant vigilance. Strategic thinks need to be a little like a clairvoyant, but they need to be able to alter policies in reaction to change.

Developing strategic plans for information technology is difficult and complex enough, but planning for the implementation of such plans can be a nightmare. Upgrading can cause chaos and it requires a great degree of skill to plan for the installation of new hardware and software while, at the same time, ensuring that productivity is maintained. Users need to be trained on the new technology and steps must be taken to ensure data integrity.

People with all the required skills to manage an information technology strategic plan are scarce and highly sought after. Such a person needs to be trained in various fields, including technology, management, managed services and leadership. The appointee often has to lead teams that consist of professionals that are all experts in their own right.

Without an IT strategy no organization can hope to remain competitive. It is vital to stay abreast of developments and to use new technology efficiently. Consumers are skeptic about businesses that seems to be out of touch with the modern world. New devices and software often allow organization ways in which to reach new markets and to improve their service levels.




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