Do you ever get frustrated when your IT provider suggests a new tool or service? Maybe you wonder if it’s really necessary or just a shiny new object? If so, you’re not alone. Here are some tips on when to follow new technology recommendations from your IT firm.
Technology Evolves Quickly
Ideally, your IT firm stays current and looks for opportunities to help you improve efficiency, streamline operations, and improve security.
If you have a strong relationship with your IT provider, they understand where you’re taking your business. Their new technology recommendations will align with your goals now or in the future.
Responsible IT firms (and their clients) are not interested in shiny, new technology simply for its own sake.
Impact of AI
Using AI is revolutionary for business. In just two short years, AI has gone mainstream. ChatGPT alone has over 1 million businesses around the world as customers, and that doesn’t include all the other AI apps available to businesses of all sizes.
AI is driving new tools for businesses of all sizes. No company is “too small” to use AI. It can help automate repetitive tasks, reduce errors, generate sales and marketing tools, and enable better decision-making using advance analytics.
In fact, it’s a powerful tool to help level the playing field for smaller organizations.
Integrating With Legacy Systems
New technology alone doesn’t solve everything. Ideally, you’ll gradually integrate new technology into your existing systems. This helps you plan and budget for necessary phase-outs of outdated tech and avoids starting from scratch every few years.
However, if you’re reluctant to make gradual updates to your tech, eventually you may discover current systems can no longer be upgraded. In that case, you’re looking at potentially significant expense and disruption. You can avoid technical debt with regular tech reviews and purposeful upgrades.
Listen and Learn, but the Decision Is Yours
How do you know when to follow new technology recommendations?
Your IT firm should assess your business needs, offer an evaluation of costs and benefits, and clearly describe how the new tech will be implemented. Always ask for the information you need to make the most informed decision you can.
Consider these questions as part of your evaluation:
- Do I value following IT best practices to improve efficiency, security, and our competitive advantage?
- Will these changes help my business meet legal or regulatory IT compliance standards?
- Has my IT firm backed up their advice with sound reasoning and shown how it helps meet my overall business objectives?
- What are the potential risks if we don’t implement the new technology?
Is your current technology “good enough”? It might be for now. Maybe the time isn’t right to change immediately because of staffing, budget, or other constraints. In this case, add a timeline to your technology roadmap so you can be proactive in the coming months or years.
Ultimately, combine your own judgment and business knowledge with your IT firm’s expertise. Work together to make effective decisions for your goals and budget.
If you’d like to know more about how CRU Solutions can help your business plan for new IT, contact us.
By Janet Gehring
December 29, 2025