Prioritizing People Over Platforms: A Business Dilemma
Have you ever noticed that your sales or operations teams seem to be working harder to adapt to technology, rather than technology making their jobs easier? Many companies invest heavily in advanced systems only to learn that these platforms often demand adjustments from their users instead of the other way around.
It’s a significant issue I see time and again: the over-reliance on IT departments to solve all problems by implementing inflexible systems that don’t truly meet employees’ needs. In my view, this reflects a profound misunderstanding of what fosters business growth.
Businesses don’t typically stumble because they’re not bringing in enough money. More often, they falter due to a scarcity of sound decision-making. A prevalent poor decision is allowing technology to dictate processes, rather than having technology moulded to serve the people using it.
Technology should be a tool that enhances productivity, not a roadblock. When it fails to streamline operations, it ends up being an obstruction to progress.
I recently came across a thought-provoking blog exploring this very topic, and I believe it could shift the perspective of many. You can delve into the full discussion here: People for Platforms or Platforms for People?
What do you think? Should businesses design systems with people at the forefront, or is it more practical to have people adapt to pre-existing systems?
One Comment
This is an incredibly relevant topic, especially as we navigate an increasingly tech-driven business landscape. I completely agree that prioritizing people over platforms is crucial for true operational efficiency. It’s essential for companies to recognize that technology should serve as an enabler, not a hindrance.
Investing in user-friendly solutions that are designed with employee feedback can create a more agile environment where teams feel empowered and motivated. I believe that a collaborative approach in the development and implementation of these systems can significantly reduce resistance to change and increase overall job satisfaction.
Moreover, gathering insights from those who will directly interact with the technology—such as sales and operations staff—can yield valuable information about their actual needs and pain points. This highlights an often-overlooked aspect: the importance of fostering a culture of open communication and continuous improvement. By emphasizing this collaboration, businesses can harness technology in a way that supports their people, leading to better decision-making and, ultimately, growth.
What strategies have you found effective in bridging the gap between technology and user experience within organizations?