Using new technology in your business can be exciting, but it’s important to keep in mind that there are potential downsides. Educate yourself and your staff, and ask them about the technology they use. Consider the long-term effects, too.
Educate yourself
Educating yourself on new technology is more important than ever. From the latest smartphones to the latest social networking software, you need to be up on what is out there. What is more, there are now privacy tools you can use to keep your data out of the hands of nosy neighbors. Educating yourself on the latest in tech can be a daunting task, but it’s a worthwhile endeavor. If you’re looking for a fun and informative way to learn about new technology, check out the San Jose Public Library’s collection of e-books and free classes. The library also offers a free privacy toolkit.
Consider the long-term implications
Despite the potential for digital technologies to boost economic growth, it has been disappointing to see weak investment in these technologies in most of the major economies. Several factors may explain this. Among them, automation is removing labor from routine, low-skilled work, and digital advances are shifting labor demand away from middle-level skills.
As technology continues to change the nature of work, social contracts need to be realigned to reflect these changes. Investment in training should be reoriented, and labor market policies should be more forward-looking. These reforms should also broaden access to new technology.
New technologies are competing for resources, and existing physician reimbursement systems present challenges for cost-effective adoption. In the United States, a level playing field is needed to encourage innovation and substitution of cost-effective clinical practices for cost-ineffective ones.
There is also a need to address issues regarding the long-term impact of new technologies on health and well-being. These technologies are often expensive, and may cause complications or side effects. Some research suggests that technology may contribute to depression and other negative health outcomes.
Ask your staff
Introducing new technology to your workplace can be a challenging task, but it is also a great opportunity to improve the way employees work. The technology you use in the office can affect employees’ workflow and the way they communicate with each other. If you decide to adopt new technology, ask your staff about it. This will help you decide whether or not the software you choose will meet your company’s needs.
Employees depend on a variety of tools, and some of them may not be familiar with new technology. It is important to have open communication with employees to make them feel comfortable and to allow them to voice their concerns. By giving them the opportunity to ask questions, you can avoid any surprises.
In addition, a survey of your employees will allow you to identify issues and concerns that may be hindering their work. You can also track progress toward a technology solution by using online surveys or in-person conversations. This will help you determine which job functions are most improved, which employees are satisfied with the technology, and which employee issues need to be addressed.
