Today’s IT leaders want to do it all! The question is, how can they maximize the time in their busy schedules while checking off each box on their never-ending to-do lists? In order to be efficient, IT leaders must move beyond simply managing environments to leveraging technology that creates value for the business. With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of 5 time-saving tips for IT leaders that will satisfy both your colleagues as well as your clients:
1) Consider the Cloud: the Cloud is no doubt a time-saving tip for IT leaders because it automates daily backups, eliminating workflow disruption. However, IT leaders need to make sure Cloud services are secure and are delivering the functionality they need. Since data centers are typically remote, there is a time lag between the collection and the processing of data (which is unnoticeable in most cases). Yet, in time-sensitive apps, this time lag, although measured in milliseconds, becomes essential. It is therefore also worth looking into Edge computing, which allows for real-time data collection and processing at the device level, resulting in quicker, more efficient response times and reduced bandwidth strain. IT leaders might want to consider a combined edge-cloud approach.
2) Be wary of first-version technology: keep in mind that first-generation technology frequently comes with drawbacks and lost productivity, including potentially dealing with a completely new company after a buyout. Assess what first-version technologies are worth the risk and consider whether it might be better to wait for the next generation.Second-generation technology is usually built with user feedback from the first-generation in mind and therefore contains significant improvements.
3) Eliminate task redundancy: when a member of your IT team duplicates a task that another member has already accomplished, you’re decreasing your long-term productivity and efficiency. The best way to avoid this type of unnecessary repetition is to improve your employee management and communication. It is essential that IT teams have a clearly defined intake process for new ideas and strategic objectives. Make sure that your organization has a single entry for new project requests because without a streamlined work intake process, it can be nearly impossible to track all of the work being done. Once the intake process is clear and objectives are set, laying out priorities and creating well-defined IT projects will enable technical teams to understand what needs to be done.
4) Implement the right software: use tools designed specifically for collaboration. It’s 2020 and our colleagues and clients are already accustomed to selecting the best software, apps and devices for their personal needs. They expect the same in the workplace. IT leaders should seek streamlined, integrated workflows and should select software that supports how people naturally work. Focus on your unique business, analyze your needs, do research, don’t skimp on quality in favour of a low price, and get your team onboarded with the software you ultimately select.
5) Strike a balance between a proactive and reactive strategy: creating a strategic IT plan can serve as a guide to IT-related decision making, by defining the overall goals, the strategies that support those goals and the tactics that are needed to execute those strategies. IT tasks are prioritized and given a timeline and the IT plan can be used as a framework for the organization. However, in IT, we have to expect the unexpected. Things might change throughout the year and timelines might get thrown off. Deviating from your IT plan can be expected and it is important to find a balance between using your IT plan as a roadmap and embracing change when needed. It is always easier to make tweaks to an existing plan than to start from square zero.
If you would like more time-saving tips or have any questions as an IT leader, feel free to reach out to one of our experts today.