The ability to overcome challenges is one of the keys to success in business. Technological challenges are no exception. Dealing efficiently with technical issues affecting employees and customers can help set a company apart from the competition. How do different technologies help companies? What business problems arise from technology assets? How can youaddress technological challengesfor small businesses to ensure successful digital transformation and integration with the future of technology? To help your business prepare for the technology challenges it may face in 2023, here is an overview of some of the ways technology is helping businesses and some of the top technology challenges facing small businesses: There are many ways that enterprise technology can help organizations thrive. One only has to look at the proliferation of companies like Netflix, Amazon, and the myriad manufacturers that have embraced factory automation to find examples of how useful different technologies can be. Some examples of how digital transformations help businesses every day are: These are just a few of the ways the evolution of technology has helped businesses of all sizes and in all industries. However, there are also many challenges that the use of technology in companies can bring.How technology helps businesses
15 Technology Challenges for Businesses
The demand for technology to accelerate business growth has increased. However, the adoption of technology brings unprecedented challenges, including computer glitches, technical errors and lack of talent.
As we prepare for 2023, companies should be aware of these 15 technological challenges they may be facing.
1: data security
A data breach is a primary data security threat. It impacts a company's financial health and competitive advantage – the cost of a data breach in the US is$8.64 million.
Cyber criminals are constantly developing new malware strategies to wreak havoc on businesses. Unless organizations find cybersecurity experts, data security will continue to be a nightmare. As different companies meet different information security requirements, cybersecurity is becoming more and more demanding.
2: Digital Transformation
Digital transformation or the integration of technologyto be involved in virtually every aspect of a business is not often a goal for companiesgem. Instead, the proliferation of technology in business operations often results in a haphazard type of digital transformation—a haphazard nature that results in an inconsistent experience for users of the enterprise's applications.
A more mindful approach to digital transformation that considers how each individual technology is integrated throughout the business operations (from mobile apps to data collection tools) can be crucial to ensure a smooth transition. Here is aIT consulting servicecan help.
3: Cloud solutions
Cloud solutions have significant advantages in terms of data security and easy access. However, they are created differently and require clear strategies for integration into business operations.
Integrating the cloud into business operations is a challenge - it can lead to cyberattacks if data leaks occur. Organizations need dedicated cloud partners to meet this challenge and deal with legacy systems that are incompatible with cloud-based technologies.
4: compliance
Compliance requirements vary by company size, location, industry, business model and customers served. Failure to comply with certain technology regulations can result in fines and penalties that can cripple business operations.
Typical data security compliance agencies are:
- The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). It is the latest US Department of Defense (DoD) verification mechanism designed to ensure cybersecurity controls and processes adequately protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) residing on Defense Industrial Base (DIB) systems and networks.
- Payment card industry data security standard(PCI DSS). It regulates the processing of customers' payment card data by companies
- Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act(HIPAA), which regulate healthcare companies
Related: WHY YOU NEED AN MSP WHO KNOWS NIST800-171 COMPLIANCE
Experienced business lawyers and IT professionals in your unique industry can help your business meet all standard requirements.
5: Integrations and Upgrades
Integrations and upgrades are critical in digital transformation. Upgrading and integrating legacy systems into a new technology infrastructure may not always be successful - application programming interfaces (APId) may not be compatible with new/old software systems or upgrade may take longer.
An effective IT management plan can help reduce the risks of integrations and upgrades.
6: Automation
The manufacturing industry uses automation tools to speed up processes, reduce production costs and increase employee safety. Other companies use automation tools to collect or transfer data between departments.
The introduction of new automation tools affects the normal operation of companies. Employees can take time to learn how to use the latest technology efficiently.
7: Internet of Things (IOT)
It's easy for companies to forget their Internet of Things (IoT) when mapping the technology infrastructure. Cyber criminals can target such IoT devices to access and compromise corporate data.network worldidentifies the following IoT vulnerabilities:
- Missing firmware validation on devices
- Missing security change notifications due to upgrades
- Unencrypted data in transit
- Missing anti-rollback mechanisms
8: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are the processes behind the functionality of automation tools. As companies focus on using AI to perform specific tasks, finding the right AI and machine learning algorithm for specific companies is a challenge.
9: Remote support from employees
This is shown by the data collected by Galluptwo-thirds of US long-distance workersprefer to continue working from home.
This means that companies need to create and support “work from home” policies.
In order to implement these guidelines, companies must integrate cloud-based solutions and mobile apps into their operations. Also, companies need to provide technical support to solve computer problems for their remote workers.
10: data management
Employees need to access business data specific to their job descriptions to enable smooth operations. Cyber criminals can use phishing emails or injection commands to manipulate unsuspecting employees.
Organizations need data management strategies to protect their files from unauthorized access and tampering.
Also, in the event of a data breach or an unexpected power outage, businesses can find it difficult to keep their systems running. Extensive resources are required to prepare companies for such events.
11: Mobility focus
The research shows that81% of people in the US. own a smartphone. This explains the development and use of mobile apps to reach more audiences.
Mobile apps also enable employees to collaborate effectively when working remotely. However, mobile phones have different hardware and software, which affects the consistency and stability of the mobile app experience.
12: Limited talent
The market suffers from a shortage of IT specialists. Most companies need to outsource IT professionals to meet their technology needs. However, companies can train specific employees to be IT competent to manage automation tools, company websites and applications, and other digital assets. This ensures that companies achieve a high ROI from IT projects.
Related:5 WAYS TO IMPROVE TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION IN YOUR ORGANIZATION
13: Infrastructure changes
Major changes in a company's IT infrastructure caused by theImplementation of new solutions and technologiescan significantly disrupt business operations. These disruptions can cost time and money as employees struggle to learn how to deal with (or around) big changes.
Additionally, managing infrastructure changes internally can itself be a costly and time-consuming process. From provisioning IT capacity to managing the installation of upgraded systems to handling upgrades and troubleshooting new solutions, doing tasks in-house can be a huge waste of time and money. This may be the reason why many companies choose to do itTake advantage of outsourced IT management servicesto help them plan their infrastructure changes.
14: Social media
Billions of people use social media platforms every day, and employees are no exception. Employees may be tempted to surf their social media addresses during work hours. This reduces their concentration and productivity. Businesses can also expand their marketing and convert leads by using social media platforms effectively.
15: Project management
Planning, organizing and implementing IT initiatives can be challenging. Ineffective project execution can lead to budget overruns and significant delays in critical IT projects - which can negatively impact ROI. Businesses need to track IT projects effectively to stay on top of budgets, estimate ROI, and optimize future initiatives.
The future of technology
Technology is the future of business, even if it brings new challenges. Businesses should know what to expect so they can adopt viable technology solutions in advance.
Your business can leverage technology trends to stay ahead of the curve - inventory management, cloud-based resources, automation, data security and governance, and project management software.
Is your company ready for the technological future? Or do you need a little help to make the most of the possibilities that new software and hardware offer?Contact Systems X todayto start!