Evaluating your organisation's technology practices

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, technology has become the cornerstone of success for organisations across industries. Board directors and executives play a pivotal role in shaping their company's technological journey. To ensure that your organisation remains competitive and resilient, it's essential to regularly assess and enhance your technology practices. With that in mind, here's a list of eight critical areas to be mindful of and what you should ask to be able to measure the effectiveness of your organisation's technology practice:

1. Alignment with business goals

Your technology strategy should be seamlessly woven into your business goals. It's crucial to evaluate whether your technology investments are directly contributing to achieving your desired business outcomes. Ensuring alignment between technology and business objectives is a cornerstone of success.

What to ask:

How well does our technology strategy align with our overall business objectives and goals?

2. Risk management and security

In an era of increasing cyber threats, robust risk management and security measures are paramount. Evaluate whether your organisation has proactive strategies in place to identify and mitigate technology-related risks, safeguarding your data and systems.

What to ask:

How effectively are we identifying and mitigating technology-related risks, including cybersecurity threats?
Is there a framework for addressing technology-related risks and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations?
Do we have robust security measures in place to protect our data and systems?

3. Efficiency and productivity

Efficiency is the name of the game. Evaluate how well your technology systems and processes optimise operations, reducing manual tasks and eliminating redundancies to save time and resources. Measure the tangible impact of your technology improvements on employee productivity and customer experiences. Ensure your technology investments translate into improved efficiency and better customer satisfaction.

What to ask:

Are our technology systems and processes optimised for efficiency, reducing manual tasks and redundancies?
How do technology improvements impact employee productivity and customer experiences?

4. Innovation and adaptability

The technology landscape is ever-evolving. Consider whether your organisation is prepared to adapt to emerging technologies and market shifts to maintain a competitive edge.

What to ask:

Do we foster a culture of innovation, encouraging employees to propose and implement tech-driven ideas?
Are we prepared to adapt to emerging technologies and market shifts?

5. Data utilisation and insights

Data is a goldmine of insights. Evaluate how effectively your organisation uses data analytics to make informed decisions and enhance your understanding of customer behaviour and preferences. Ensure data-driven insights are not just collected but also integrated into your strategic planning and operational processes, driving data-led decision-making across the organisation.

What to ask:

How effectively are we using data analytics to inform decision-making and enhance customer understanding?
Are data-driven insights integrated into our strategic planning and operational processes?

6. User proficiency and experience

User proficiency is crucial for maximising the benefits of your technology solutions. Assess how confident your employees and users are in using the available technology tools and systems. Invest in training and support to empower users to make the most of your technology solutions.

What to ask:

How confident are our employees and users in using the technology tools and systems available to them?
Do we provide adequate training and support to ensure that users can maximise the benefits of our technology solutions?

7. Service and knowledge management

Accessibility to support and knowledge resources is critical. Evaluate how easy it is for employees and users to access assistance when encountering technology-related issues or questions. Ensure your organisation has a comprehensive service catalogue that outlines available technology services, simplifying the process for users to identify and request the services they require.

What to ask:

How easy is it for our employees and users to access help, support, and knowledge resources when they encounter technology-related issues or have questions?
Do we have a well-maintained service catalogue that outlines the technology services available, helping users quickly identify and request the services they need?

8. Oversight and governance

To ensure the effective implementation of these critical technology practices, it's imperative to establish robust oversight and governance mechanisms. Board directors and executives should actively engage in monitoring and guiding technology initiatives, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

What to ask:

Are there clear lines of responsibility and accountability for technology initiatives within our organisation?
Do we have regular technology progress reviews and audits at the board and executive levels?

As board directors and executives, it's your responsibility to lead the charge in embracing technology as a strategic enabler. I urge you to consider these critical questions and take action where necessary. By continuously evaluating and enhancing your technology practices, you can ensure your organisation remains agile, competitive, and poised for long-term success in the ever-evolving digital landscape. Your commitment to technological excellence will shape the future of your organisation.

Anthony McMahon photo

About the author

Anthony McMahon, MInstD, is an advisor with Target State Limited. He believes that good technology practice is an essential ingredient for success. He is also a member of IT Professionals and holds current board roles.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the position of the IoD unless explicitly stated.

Contribute your perspectives and expertise on an area of governance to the IoD membership and governance community. Contact mark.russell@iod.org.nz