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Stay Main Stream

Inside Small Business | August 3rd, 2007

David Grenda, Founder, Grenda Computer Consulting

The basis for this week’s discussion is the reminder that I approach my technology consulting from the business owner’s perspective. As a business owner the keys to technology are dependability, ease of use and cost effectiveness. When you consider implementing a business technology solution, I always recommend a route that stays in the main stream. Like it or not, main stream in the world of small business generally means Microsoft. I’m certainly not in sales for Microsoft, but here are a few things to consider.

Staying main stream in technology means that you have options. If you part ways with your technology provider, it’s much easier to find credible Microsoft support. I’ve seen all too many examples of systems implemented in one platform, only to be migrated to Microsoft when the business owner and technology provider parted ways and qualified assistance could not be found.

Business to business computing interfacing is easier when both parties are using the same platform. There are problems to be had with conversions and filter processes needed to move information between disparate system platforms.

Growth is a problem we all hope to have, and you have to consider the scalability of a technology solution when you implement it. A small non-standard software system may work well for the application at hand, but what happens when you want to build upon it and expand capability? Realizing you have had wrong software platform when you are on the brink of growth can stop you cold as you regroup to get on the right track.

Remember that by nature, we technical types have never gravitated toward team play. We were always off looking for another or better way to do something ourselves. Many grew up into IT providers who carry that “better way” philosophy forward in the solutions they want to implement for your business. Stay with the main stream and you’ll eliminate one big potential headache for the future.

www.grenda.com