A Proper IT Strategy Can Be Rather Important

By Emma Mathers


IT strategy, or Information Technology strategy is a term used to describe the complete plan that consists of objectives; tactics and principles related to how a specific organization will make use of its technologies. These strategies focus primarily on the actual technology and at time it also includes the individuals who manage them. These strategies are normally in a documented format and are directed at the organizations decisions concerning technology.

One or two other aspects focused on in the plan are how efficiently technological related expenditure occurs as well as the correct implementation of these tools into the business. On the whole the key area that is focused on is ensuring employees; companies as well as their customers are able to get the most benefit from using the correct technology. Technological related strategies of this kind normally cover a three to five year plan.

Most companies put these strategies into a written document so that it can be followed as part of the day to day operations of the business. These documented plans need to have a flexible and understandable base that will easily adjust to anything unforeseen that arises. As businesses start to grow and transform so should strategies and the priorities that are focused on; this is primarily to make certain that top technology is always available to employees.

Budget constraint, new technology and varying needs all have an effect on how strategies are adjusted or incorporated into each organization. A perfect plan should be easy for employees to follow; this will be in the way that it has been set out. Additionally there are 4 areas that one should focus on especially when designing these plans.

Firstly the main organizational process and information requirements that ones IT system has to be able to support. Secondly, the key equipment needed in order to support the related activities, such as desktops, servers, laptops as well as communication systems. This will also extend onto the operating systems and application software that is used for the various functions of departments within the organization.

Another decision that needs to be made is whether or not the organization will be using standard software or having a system designed. Other considerations that come into play is if the applications have to have support 24/7; if certain services will be outsourced or if skills will be taught to an in- house team. These are all very important decisions that one will be faced with and need careful consideration.

There are numerous companies that will happily operate without strategies being put in place; it may work for some industries but not all of them. But alternately, not putting a plan in place, as a result decisions made will normally be based on one area of the corporation. It may perhaps lead to discrepancy and disorganization leading to expensive mistakes, ultimately employees could end up feeling frustrated.

In contrast, having a clear thought out IT strategy gives any organization the ability to make cost-effective and appropriate related decisions. There is no specific time to consider setting these plans into action it all depends on the company. But it is best done early on to utilize all the business potential from the start by using the appropriate tools and technology that is available.




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