These days, it’s not enough to just have a business idea; you need to have a technology strategy in place, too. keeping up with technology is hard enough, but staying on top of all the new technological developments out there can be even harder. Fortunately, with the right tools, staying up-to-date with technology doesn’t have to feel impossible.
Tips for Getting Up-to-Date Tech
We live in an age where new tech products are being released every day and your business needs to make sure it’s on top of tech trends. From making sure your employees are using all of the latest business software to embracing new technologies, here are six tips to ensure your business has the best technology:
1. Regularly Upgrade Your Equipment
When was the last time you upgraded your computer or replaced your old smartphone? If it’s been more than a year, you might be due for an upgrade. Don’t just go out and buy something at random; do some research first.
Talk to friends and coworkers who have tried multiple models to see if you can borrow a model from someone to test it out before buying. Regularly updating your equipment will help keep things running smoothly and that will help you transition to the latest tech as it becomes available.
2. Rent New Equipment
Instead of buying new technology, it’s common practice for organizations to simply rent equipment every month. This makes sense in several ways. The upfront cost of purchasing new equipment can be costly and many devices lose their usefulness in just a few years. Rather than having unused and obsolete machines that aren’t compatible, renting ensures that you’re only paying for what you need.
In addition, some companies don’t have a legitimate use for certain types of technology (iPads are not typically used by architects and dentists). Instead of purchasing items they won’t use or resell them online as is.
3. Sign up for Tech Newsletters
Another helpful way to stay up-to-date on technology is simply by receiving news and announcements from companies directly. Many tech firms offer free newsletters, some even providing discounts or exclusive offers for subscribers only. There are also a number of sites that curate all of these newsletters into one simple email you can read, like Product Hunt’s Daily Digest. Signing up for a tech newsletter is an easy way to keep up with what’s happening in your industry and beyond, so start getting those emails!
4. Go to Tech Meetups
As new technology emerges, there are dozens (if not hundreds) of people who have been living and breathing it for years—and they meet regularly at places like Tech Meetups. While these events vary greatly in size, content, purpose, and location, getting plugged into your local tech community can do wonders for your professional development and reputation in your field. Moreover, the more people you know in tech or social media circles, the more opportunities could be in store down the road.
5. Read Blogs
The biggest issue with staying up-to-date with technology is that it happens so fast. The latest smartphones and social media sites are updated weekly, if not daily. That’s why it’s so important to find a few blogs and websites you can rely on for updates on current tech news and announcements. CNET, Mashable, Wired, and Gizmodo all have great tech coverage from breaking stories to opinion pieces as well as an active community of users who post user experiences and ask questions about products. Be up to date on the latest windows update or what a scsi cable is used for to find out the latest information you need to know.
6. Build Relationships with Startup Founders
We don’t all live in Silicon Valley, but there are plenty of startups near you that you can reach out to for tips on staying up-to-date with technology. Find a startup that is involved in similar things as your company and reach out. If they think you have potential and can help, they might agree to mentor your business.
The world of technology changes rapidly and it’s important to ensure that your business keeps up with the times. Keep this guide in mind to make sure your business has the best technology going forward.
