A Business First Philosophy on IT

After more than a few years in all facets of the technology field working in numerous industries I have learned that it takes more than a techno-talker to create technology solutions that stand the test of business profitability and success. It is crucial to know what is required from a customer perspective and from a business perspective long before technology enters into the equation. The seasoned IT practitioner knows not to attempt to resolve problems with technology before they have a complete understanding of the business problem. Drafting a complete definition of the business issue is a key first step toward gaining that understanding. Meeting with stakeholders and customers to validate that definition prior to formulating a solution is also key.

Planning is king in business … period. Premature execution of technological solutions nearly always results in a bigger and more costly problem. IT is merely an operational wing of your business and must be held accountable for doing its fair share of business aligned planning. Only after a plan is vetted by the key stakeholders in your business should a technological solution be considered. Problems go away with proper business planning and success comes with proper business planning. Your Information Technology division must be aligned with this business philosophy first and foremost. Only then will your business reap the rewards of well planned technology strategies and solutions.