Microsoft recently released an Office App for iPhone - this is huge because 'Mobile Devices' will steadily continue to take over from 'Desk Top' computers as time moves on. A good move and well timed for Microsoft to keep 'Office' as a desirable tool. However, most mobile apps and the technology have a long way to go to prove their worth to the world rather than just being another human desire. This can be said for Social Media too. Many companies are jumping on the band wagon without knowing exactly where they are going. Right now lots of Social Media and Mobile device additions to businesses are increasing overheads and having no positive impact on sales. The "we need to be seen to be doing the right things" statement seems to be the main reason for many diving into this technology headfirst ... well before the pool is filled!
Earlier this week i had a great giggle over a piece of 'Sobriety Software' used for Social Media. Hmmm.. so someone invented a piece of software that we can run on our own computers to save us from ourselves when we get drunk and want to post silly things on our Facebook profiles!! I think we need the same principle applied to a software package for companies using technology they know little about!
We all know that doing business is about relationships, not technology. So why the crazed focus on it? Because it's exciting. It's new, different and it's leading edge. It's also experimental, expensive and dangerous in the wrong hands.
The mechanic that fixes my old BMW does not own a BMW, yet he is an expert. The kitchen maker we used a while back, does not have a kitchen in their building as nice as ours. The builder i last used for our 'minimalist' alterations owns a renovated bungalow that he did not alter himself. We build websites and advise on technology which companies use, yet our website is very simple and employs little of what we use to build some of our customer websites. The same can be said for many manufacturers, product sellers or services. Most do not develop or use those products and services for their own business anywhere like what they do for their clients. Does it make them any less capable? Do you avoid using them because of these things?
While you may feel the need to be 'seen' to be current, take your time and do only what you know you can manage and afford. Mobile Technology is not going anywhere, nor is it essential for looking or acting professionally. Concentrate on fundamental online principles that assist your customers, reduce overheads and help your employees. If you see a possible requirement where it may benefit the company, research it well and look at companies who already use it. Let others 'inject themselves' with experimental technology and watch the results ... it's much smarter and a lot less painful.
