KS:001 - Don't chase the shineys.


SCOTT RINGKAMP

TECHNICAL CONSULTANT

Hello Reader,

Today is the first Issue of my newsletter. I have wanted to launch this since last January and am excited to get it off the ground.

For now, it will arrive monthly and provide simple technology frameworks that will make you smarter when it comes to improving your systems.

Ok, let's dive in!

I bet you are tired of pouring money into the latest tech, only to see it fail or become a frustration to you or your business. You're not alone. Many businesses fall into the trap of chasing shiny new tools, hoping for a miracle. The truth is, cutting-edge technology isn't a magic wand. It only delivers when aligned with your specific business needs.

My father-in-law collects antique cars, but while they look good, an antique car probably won't get the job done if you are trying to tow something heavy.

Or, in other words, don’t bring a sports car when you need a work truck. No matter how impressive the engine, it won't do the job. Today, this tech-to-business alignment is more critical than ever for staying competitive.

So, how do you transform your tech stack from a costly headache into a high-performing asset?

Follow these four steps:

Define Your Endgame

Before even looking at products or getting distracted by what is out there, take a hard look at your business goals.

  • Are you aiming for efficiency gains,
  • happier customers,
  • a sales boost,
  • or something else?

A clear vision of where you want to go will guide your tech choices.

It will also keep you from spending money on things that look cool but do not meet your needs.


Evaluate Your Current Technology

This step is often overlooked. Don't do it. Instead, take the time to examine your existing tech infrastructure.

  • Is it helping or hindering your progress?
  • Is it meeting your needs?
  • Is it old or outdated?
  • Where is it weak?

The answers here provide excellent starting points for looking for new tech.


Innovate Strategically

New tech is exciting, but don't get swept up in the hype. You might end up with a glorified paperweight or an expensive toy that no one uses.

Instead, be selective. Choose solutions that:

  • add value
  • align with your goals
  • seamlessly integrate with your current systems
  • are enjoyable to use (yes technology can be enjoyable)

Focus on tools that genuinely add value, not just buzzwords.

Empower Your People

Technology is useless without skilled users. Invest in comprehensive training so your team can fully utilize new tools. Remember, technology is just a means to an end. Your employees are the ones who will drive results.

Practically this means:

  • Provide clear communication before, during, and after adding a new tool
  • Set clear expectations for use, and follow up on those expectations
  • Train your staff on those expectations and how to meet them
  • Provide follow-up support for those who take a little more time to learn new things.

P.S. Guess which step is most often skipped?

Answer: It's the second one – auditing your existing tech. Don't make this mistake. Knowing where you stand is the first step toward choosing the right tools.

Build a tech stack that works for you, not against you.


Have a great day!
Scott

Whenever you're ready, there are 3 ways I can help you:

  1. Book a 1-2-1 call. Avoid wasting time with a personalized 30-minute call. Bring 2-3 questions about your technical or business systems and processes.
  2. Disaster Recovery Plan - Every business should have a plan to respond when things go wrong. Or what if you get hacked? What if you lose access to your data? Let's develop a comprehensive plan to help you work through technical emergencies.
  3. Discovery Session - Unsure of what is wrong or where to start with your business? Start with a discovery session. This low-cost, no-obligation activity provides a comprehensive, actionable report for your business, including identified issues and ways to fix them. We can do a general business analysis or target it toward a specific area, such as technology, leadership, hiring practices, etc.

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Scott Ringkamp

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