[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1592346643791{margin-bottom: 1% !important;}”]
As we are in the midst of our disaster/pandemic recovery, it is easy for all of us (business owners, employees, governments, etc.) to feel overwhelmed. The problem with feeling overwhelmed is that we tend to think small; this is the opposite of what needs to be happening. While COVID-19 has wreaked havoc on business and organizations, crisis presents us with a unique opportunity – a chance to truly focus on modernization efforts. As Jed Pressgrove said “The silver lining of any crisis is that it reinforces the need for an organization to continue modernizing.” We have seen too many companies and state departments move from an ok system and process to another while in many ways failing to truly build a better, sustainable, and modern operating methodology. While many of us might feel we’ve modernized enough, the reality is that we have not. Technology is now in its second and third generations, systems are improved, and the importance and ability to connect and work together is greater than ever. But the question remains, how do we strive to evolve and modernize, not just survive? And WHY is modernization necessary? To help answer this question, we have provided 3 reasons why local and national companies and organizations need to be thinking modernization during a crisis, not simply survival:
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
Interoperability
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1592346682797{margin-bottom: 2.5% !important;}”]
Crises, such as COVID-19, usually reveal a big technology gap and need. Interoperability between different systems, be it at a government or corporate level, is something that needs to increase. Functionally and monetarily, modernization efforts that are focused on creating interoperable systems, processes and policies just make sense. Especially when the ability to invest and update can feel daunting. Interoperability provides ability for faster, better data; for quicker problem solving; and for more opportunities of collaboration. We know from many of our clients, for public health specifically, interoperability is no longer an option, but a necessity. What we as a whole must think about, is not just interoperability locally, but across the country.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
Faster responses to disasters
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1592346722293{margin-bottom: 2.5% !important;}”]
All disasters bring to light cracks in the foundations. For COVID-19, a lot of the cracks were response times. Disasters are not just health related; they can be branding disasters, industry disasters, media disasters, etc. Successful and planned out modernization efforts help companies and organizations respond faster and better to any type of disaster. Technology, specifically the right technology, plays a big role in response time as does your employee’s knowledge and skill using the technology. Whether it is being able to identify a problem quicker, or develop and execute a recovery plan quicker, modernization is simply a necessity. We know personally, our team has had to modernize much of our internal processes and procedures. These modernization efforts have propelled our company forward into quick disaster recovery; and makes us more immune and prepared for swift action in future situations.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
A shift in how we work
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1592346763618{margin-bottom: 2.5% !important;}”]
Our working reality has completely shifted. For those companies and organizations that were trialing in the modernization efforts, this pain was felt much more than others. The reality is that many of the shifts this disaster has brought are here to stay; and we need to modernize to thrive. For some, that means figuring out how to potentially move paper-based processes to an electronic platform; and developing contingency plans in the event access to office spaces and paper is not allowed. This holds true for companies and organizations that have a person-to-person aspect (vital records, retail, restaurants, etc.). What modernization efforts could help prepare you for future crises? Make a comprehensive study and plan correctly. Lastly, many companies have already begun modernizing policies and procedures, especially as it relates to remote work. Although a lot of time and effort goes into these types of changes, it is something that all of us should be investing in.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1592346785789{margin-bottom: 2.5% !important;}”]
The bottom line is this: modernization is something that we all should be actively participating in and improving upon. Yes, a crisis is a hard time to be thinking big, but it is also the most critical time to be doing so. It is a chance, when there has been so much upheaval and change, to rebuild. Break down work silos that are limiting productivity and functionality. Invest in the right technology that will aid your modernization efforts. And together, as a community, we will thrive.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
Interested in learning more about modernizing the right way? Contact our team at Kim@QuantumMark.com today!
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]