From the minute you open your doors as a small business, you as the owner have your expectations. You also know that there are certain basics that are necessary for you to succeed. The right space in the right location? Check. Like-minded people with skill sets to support your vision? Check. Business plan? Check. The right tools? Of course. And your technology? Crickets. “Yes, I have good computers” is not the best answer. At this point in the evolution of global e-commerce, you should have some depth of knowledge about your IT and how it supports your growth and development. Aren’t we all in this for positive results?
If Business Has Been Good, Is Your Original IT Setup Still Sufficient?
Did your IT structure seem expensive at the time? Either way, how long ago was that purchase? I’ve come to understand that reinvesting profits into your business depends on how a business owner chooses to achieve his/her goals. How you optimize your technology is no different than making personnel decisions. If you hire someone who is reputed to be at the top of the field and has a stellar track record, then you can expect significant production once that new person is up to speed at your business. You have invested in the abilities of that person, so you can project your growth based on what the new employee will bring to the table.
The Right IT Management Company Is Also An Investment To Help You Reach Your Goals
You should not view your technology as a cost center. When you know your technology delivers results, then you understand that you have invested in a process to gain a strategic advantage. Your tech costs should not be viewed as a necessary evil. I’ve seen small businesses over the years that chose a tech service company based solely on the lowest bid for services. My question then and now is always, “Do you fully understand what you’re giving up?” If your IT management company is not partnering with you on a day-to-day basis, then what will you lose to downtime, lost data, irate customers, and emergency expenses? Why not find instead that IT company you can task to help you achieve your highest goals?
Can You Tie Your Gains To Your Thoughtful Investments?
Results are the final evidence. I remember hearing stories from back in the day when telephones were a key component to selling, order-taking, and supply chain tracking. A company would bite the bullet and invest in a new phone system. They seemed so expensive at the time, but new systems came with new features and new ease of use. I don’t remember ever hearing of a new phone system that did not pay for itself pretty quickly. I’ve seen the same thing happen for computer hardware and software upgrades. Our customers tell us they gave serious thought to the investment and to the commitment. We have never had the call to come and take it all back for lack of results.
Aptica Will Begin With A Free (And Honest) Assessment
As you take that deep breath to get busy in Q4, set your expectations for productivity and then find the company that can show you results. You invested in this, and sure enough—it produced that. Aptica offers solutions based on experience and evidence. We can show you how one tactic led to a desired result. You should never have to hold your breath after you decide to upgrade. We are confident your results will match your expectations. Give us a call. Let’s start with your questions and our suggestions. 260.243.5100.
Jason Newburg, 260.243.5100, ext 2001, is the founder and owner of Aptica LLC. This IT management and support company has been serving small to medium-sized businesses for 15 years in the area that includes Angola, South Bend, and Fort Wayne, IN, Battle Creek, MI, and Toledo, OH.