IT: More Than a Computer Support Team
In the United States, there are presently more than 43,000,000 workers who use a personal computer as a part of their job (EIA, 1995). For a large majority of these employees, the desktop support staff is their only glimpse into the world of information technology. While support technicians usually present a good view of IT, technology goes far beyond repairing computers and installing software.
Finding the Balance
In today’s highly competitive business world, with an expectation for lower expenses, IT is a critical part of an organization’s business strategy. Successful organizations use IT to make better business decisions and to streamline their business operations. This requires that they find a balance between their overall business and organizational strategies to incorporate information resources (Pearlson & Saunders, 2006). This also means that, as the business and organizational strategies are modified to meet normal business demands, a strategy for information technology must keep up.
Increasing the Bottom Line
As this strategic balance is found within an organization, management can use technology in innovative ways to ultimately increase the bottom line. This is possible because technology, when properly aligned with business goals and objectives, will improve customer experience when interacting with the business.
A technology-enabled business can meet its customers’ demands for quality products and services more accurately. It will also be better able to differentiate itself and its products from its competitors. By streamlining work, businesses can more effectively keep the costs of doing business under control.
These benefits of technology will allow an organization to offer a competitive product at a competitive price—and ultimately gain the competitive advantage. Technology meets the needs of businesses at every level.
References
Pearlson, Keri E., & Saunders, Carol S. (2006). Managing and Using Information Systems. A Strategic Approach (3rd ed.). Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
