The speed at which technology is evolving can be both exciting and intimidating for organizations that want to be on the cutting edge. Every day new, innovative platforms enter the market hoping to go viral and capture the minds and dollars of consumers. Technology moves fast and your organization should too – but not TOO fast. Although new technology can be appealing, not everything that glitters is gold. Innovative technology will only add value to your organization if implemented correctly.
Here are some questions you should ask before your organization decides to use a new digital platform:
- What is the purpose of this technology? Every digital platform has a specific purpose and use. Twitter’s purpose is to stimulate conversation among its users through short, soundbite-style messages. Augmented Reality applications (i.e. Pokemon Go, Layar) are meant to create an interactive experience between the user, creative content and the real world using GPS technology. Every platform is unique. You can’t implement a new technology without understanding its purpose and how it can be used strategically to help your organization meet its goals.
- Who is this platform designed for? Any good software/user experience designer has a target audience in mind when creating a new application. The target user is often called a “persona”. Before your organization implements a new platform, make sure you understand exactly who currently uses it or will in the future. If your members/customers are not the target users, it will be very difficult to create meaningful engagement using the platform.
- How will my members/stakeholders interact with the technology? It’s all about the user experience. Make sure you walk through and test every possible scenario of how you and your stakeholders will interact with the platform before the launch. Technology is most effective when it creates a two-way conversation between an organization and its stakeholders, so you should make sure you have the resources to respond to users’ content, questions or feedback. There’s nothing worse for a user than having a frustrating experience with an application that is supposed to make their lives easier.
After you’ve asked these questions and determined that a new digital application is right for your organization, you’re well on your way to making your virtual dreams a reality. Remember to also develop solid communications, training and usage policies to make sure your team is all on the same page. As mentioned at the beginning of this blog, technology moves fast, so don’t be left behind! Consider how you can incorporate new technology into your organization’s business strategy today. If you get stuck along the way, the Redstone team is here to help you navigate the digital landscape.