Moving into the 21st century is a huge challenge for most businesses, especially for those that try to hold long to older technology. But as they neglect the importance of upgrading their technology, they also miss a lot of opportunities.

Believe it or not, the entire information technology is spending at least $3.5 trillion in order to integrate and implement technologically advanced systems. Why? This is simply due to the fact that it makes total sense. Otherwise, you will be left out.

By understanding where to add and/or upgrade tech applications or solutions, you will be able to manage your business’s overall IT strategy. With said, here are tips that you should consider in order to upgrade your business’s tech the right way.

#1. Start With Integration In Mind

It holds true that upgrading software systems means facing various arguments. For instance, you are planning to install the CMDB software. While many would oppose your idea, you firmly believe this software could better help you in tracking the configuration items of your company’s IT ecosystem.

But regardless of the software you choose, it is important that you always put integration in mind. The idea is to make sure that whatever tech or application you choose to move forward with can perfectly integrate with your business uses. So, as much as possible, it should have the ability to connect with other applications or systems, particularly the ones that your company is already using.

#2. Migrate to Cloud Software

There is a huge reason why cloud software is beginning to grow in popularity. As a matter of fact, more and more companies are starting to realize the huge benefit it offers. Do you want to significantly reduce maintenance costs? What if you could do this and, at the same time, have access to areas such as inventory management, resource planning, and e-commerce, among many others?

If you are looking to have this kind of flexibility in your business, you must not think twice about migrating to cloud software. In fact, it is deemed the most viable solution when it comes to managing any type of company need. Cloud software gives you the flexibility that no traditional or conventional methods can offer.

#3. Go For Hosted Email

There are a good number of hosted email options. You can choose an exchange provider, or, if you prefer, Google Suite. Either way, you have good chances of upgrading your company’s IT ecosystem. Instead of spending a considerable amount of resources trying to keep up with traditional methods of running your business’ systems and/or processes, you have better chances with hosted emails.

For starters, this method can give you high stability to ensure that your emails are safe and well-protected. Plus, you are always guaranteed of the upkeep. All in all, a hosted email gives you the much-needed convenience for running your company’s day to day works.

#4. Give Importance to Security

In case you did not know, the technology-dependent world has been battling the lack of security. In the past, one could say that security is a secondary option to have, something that you could add later on or so. But it is completely different now.

In a world where technology keeps companies running, you want to make sure that you have the best security systems in place. That is why with every technology you implement, you must make sure that it gives focus to security. If your current software does not provide you the much-needed security, you are better off finding a different one.

#5. Go For Centralized Systems

Before, a business would be introduced to various software or technology that offers different kinds of task or area. For instance, software A might be meant to handle customer complaints and requests. Software B, on the other hand, is more about following up guest reviews and after-sales service. While there is nothing wrong about having both systems in place, it is better if you choose a system that offers these capabilities all at once. That is what a centralized system is all about.

In other words, upgrade to a technology that could offer you vast areas of capabilities and responsibilities. So instead of moving forward with two absolutely different systems, why not pick centralized software that covers both of these systems’ work all at once? It is like killing two birds with one stone. Not only will be you able to do a better job at utilizing the system, but you will also be able to significantly cut costs.

#6. Embrace Video

Yes, that is right – video technology plays a critical role in every business regardless of size. It is imperative that you start embracing the idea of streaming video communication. For starters, it helps promote a transparent and healthy communication within your company. You can use it to connect with your clients, employees, or partners, just to name a few.

Think about trying to explain a certain process to a colleague or employee. Instead of giving these instructions in text i.e. email or messages, you can always go for streaming video communication. This would give the other person a much better understanding of what you are trying to communicate and, thus, improve your overall workflow delivery.

#7. Go For The Best Customer Support

Let’s face it: In one way or another, you will encounter problems related to your company’s systems or applications. And if you outsourced this software, you want to make sure that you will have access to all technical assistance. This is where you need to have access to the best customer support possible.

While your IT team may find the answers later on, you want to have customer support that is ready to assist you when needed. What if you suddenly face technical problems in the middle of the night? You definitely want someone to be there to help you. So before you start choosing software for your company, make sure that it offers the best after-sales service and/or customer support.