For most companies that have an IT department, the decisions that revolve around technology, including the devices and the platforms/programs that are used, fall squarely on their shoulders. IT professionals do the research and, in most cases, choose the technology (devices, platforms, etc.) that best suit the needs of the company. The problem is that while the IT professionals may know what’s best, the employees may not agree with their findings. Finding a happy medium is not always as easy as it sounds.
Forcing the Tech Issue
Management often gives the IT department strict control over the technology that is used during the day to day operation of the business. Because they have built the network and know what devices will work most efficiently, they may expect employees to merely follow along. For some, this may work. The problem revolves around the fact that not every employee may feel comfortable with the platforms the IT department wants them to use. They may be difficult to use or the employee may simply have another option that they prefer. Forcing employees to conform to IT departments demands can lead to significant issues, including reduced productivity, increased tension in the workplace, and frustration with how the system works as a whole. Needless to say, forcing the issue can have disastrous consequences.
Strictly Managed IT or Enhanced Productivity
Simply put, you can have a strictly managed IT network that doesn’t take into consideration the needs and wants of the employees or you can allow the employees to choose the devices and platforms they want increasing productivity, but possibly causing the system to not work as effectively as it should. The key to finding the best of both worlds is to find a happy medium. Employees don’t necessarily want to dictate where the company invests their technology dollars, they just want a say in how it will affect them and how they are able to do their jobs. It’s more beneficial for everyone involved if both the IT department and the employees work together to create a system that makes it easy for the employees to perform effectively as well as allowing the IT department the ability to invest in the technology that is needed to keep the business moving forward.
Personalization
The key is to maintain the integrity of the company’s IT network while allowing employees to use the platforms, programs, and devices they are most comfortable with. This level of personalization may take some time to accomplish but in the end, will create a network that is both efficient as well as secure. When it comes to investing the company’s money into high-tech systems, taking a dictatorial approach can have disastrous results if the employees aren’t comfortable with the IT department’s choice. While IT will still have the final say, allowing employees to voice their opinion and provide input from their perspective will make it possible to build a personalized network that accomplishes everyone’s goals. This includes creating a system that is both secure and well-structured using devices and platforms that allow employees to be as productive as possible.
Working together to create a personalized network will not only ensure that the company’s investment pays off, but it will also allow employees to feel valued. The more appreciated the employee, the more dedicated they are to the company, which in turn, increases productivity and creates a positive work environment.