The Technology Headlines DEMAND FORCASTING & AI | Page 18

EXPERT ANALYSIS
THE TECHNOLOGY HEADLINES
SILOS BELONG ON A FARM – NOT IN YOUR IT DEPARTMENT
By Jim McNeese, CEO/ Founder, C2XCEL
experiences for them and those they connect with each
day. Users want a seamless experience on every device, on
any network, and at any location.
Jim McNeese
CEO & FOUNDER C2XCEL
I
f you’ve ever had the opportunity to drive through the
rural parts of Texas, you’ve undoubtedly noticed the
large agricultural silos that pepper the vast farmlands.
A crucial instrument in the overall operation of the
farming system, silos increases the storage life of grains
by protecting them from the elements. In the business
world, more specifically in the IT department, silos
create an environment of disparate systems that plague
organizations and prevent IT from ‘moving at the speed of
business.’
In today’s hyper-connected world, people and systems
are no longer isolated. They simply don’t function well
in silos. Tech-savvy employees demand integrated
technologies that allow them to work smarter, not
harder. They want access to applications and systems
that offer engaging interactions and foster pleasant user
AUGUST 2019
Technology is running in tandem with this market
demand, fast-tracking the interconnection of people,
devices, and organizations. Digital transformation
and the shift to the cloud are creating innovative
opportunities for businesses to be more agile, flexible, and
scalable. At the same time, this rapid pace of technological
innovation is forcing CIOs and CTOs to rethink their
approach to IT. Under constant pressure to find a way
to bridge the gap, C-levels must ensure that IT solutions
are functioning in a manner that supports the business’
strategic needs while also meeting the demands of users
and customers. Making this happen, however, isn’t as easy
at it seems.
Examining your current IT landscape and defining
requirements
Before you deploy any IT solution, there should be a
significant amount of pre-planning – homework, if
you will. You wouldn’t buy a car without considering
the features, cost, or durability that you require. Why
would you do that with business technology? A thorough
examination of your current IT landscape is mandatory
to ascertain baseline requirements for any solution.
Evaluating how your systems, networks, data, devices,
applications, and people are connected today allows you
to identify current silos and areas that need immediate
technology solutions.
Once you’ve determined where you currently stand in
your IT situation, you will need to work with leaders in
other departments to determine strategic initiatives for
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