Utilizing older technology may seem like it saves money, however it can hurt business operations. Below are 4 signs that it could be time to update or change some technology devices.
Small and mid-sized businesses usually have limited tech budgets, so it’s common for them to continue using their old tech as long as they can. However, there is a point at which outdated tech gadgets end up being a problem and hurt business operations.
Here are 4 signs that it might be time to update or change some technology tools in your business:
1. STAFF MEMBER EFFICIENCY IS SUFFERING
If your employee has a great deal of idle time on their hands while they are waiting for devices to power up, it could be time to upgrade or change those products. For instance, if staff members need to frequently wait on data to download from your wireless network, you might need a new Wi-Fi router. Older routers that support only the 802.11g, 802.11b, or 802.11a wireless specs have slower signal speeds compared to their modern-day equivalents.
Likewise, if employees need to wait on resource-intensive applications to execute tasks, they may need computer systems with larger and faster hard drives or solid-state drive. Older computer systems typically have much less RAM and processing power, so they might not have the ability to effectively deal with resource-intensive applications.
Employees may not even have the tech they need to do their jobs. For instance, workers who often take a trip for work may not have the mobile devices they require to function or stay in contact with the workplace when they are on the road.
2. INCOMPATIBILITIES ARE ENCOUNTERED
It may be time for change when you cannot use brand-new products with your existing tech tools because of incompatibilities. For instance, you may not be able to install the current operating system on employees’ computers if those computer systems do not meet the minimum spec requirements. Even worse, you may not have the ability to set up a new business application on their computers since the operating system is dated, and you cannot update the operating system given that the hardware is old.
Incompatible plugs and ports can likewise signify that it is time for brand-new devices. For example, you could have a brand-new peripheral device that calls for a USB-C plug, which your computer system does not have. Or, you might not have the ability to connect a brand-new computer system to an existing display because the screen has a VGA plug while the computer system has an HDMI port. Although adapters can solve some incompatibility concerns, they commonly cause slower speeds and lower resolutions.
3. A DEVICE IS CONSTANT EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS
If an older gadget is frequently experiencing troubles, it might be time to replace it. For example, files could inexplicably go missing on a computer as well as apps could regularly freeze up or crash for no evident reason. These are signs that a computer’s hard drive could be failing.
4. SALES ARE SUFFERING
If sales are suffering due to recurring technology issues on older devices, it could be time to upgrade or change them. For example, customers could be going to your competition because your old website server slows to a crawl during peak use times. Choosing whether to replace or upgrade an older device that still functions– but not efficiently or effectively– can be a tough decision. However, it is usually worth it in the future.
Is Outdated Technology Hurting Your Business?
Sometimes, it is evident when problems happen due to obsolete tech. Other times, it is not that cut and dry. We can evaluate the situation to identify whether the troubles are because of old tech devices or resolve any number of other tech related issues.