Leadership: The Benefits of Technology

In the past few weeks we have touched on a few of the negative aspects of technology. While technology has a few negative implications on our work-life balance, it also enables us to work more effectively and efficiently when utilized well. I rely on technology for much of what I do and realize how essential this technology is personally and professionally.

In order to experience the full benefits technology has to offer, you must find what is right for you and your organization. Each member of my team has a various collection of apps and programs that make their days flow smoothly. What works for one might not work for another. This doesn’t mean they don’t try to convert me to their best apps. I was told about the benefits of Evernote for months!

The Keys to Using Technology

• Define what you need – Define what is beneficial to completing your work goals and only download those that fall within that need. The goal is to work more effectively and efficiently.
• Download only what is necessary – Don’t download every helpful app or program you can find. There are millions of wonderful applications, but not all are necessary. Excessive programs and applications will also slow down your device making work less productive.
• Keep it simple – One of my favorite technological applications is the “voice to text” option on my phone. This simple piece of technology allows me to work from virtually anywhere, even while exercising at the gym.
• Collaborate with your team – Technology allows a variety of ways to collaborate with your team. Leadership requires communication, and with the help of programs like Skype, Dropbox, Evernote, and even email, it is simple to communicate and collaborate with your team.
• Don’t stretch yourself thin – One of the quickest ways to become less efficient and effective is to use multiple programs and apps for the same purpose. When choosing, make sure to align only one program or app with each task. If using Evernote for collaboration, stick with it. Do not manage half your documents in one place and half in another.
• Stick with what works – You do not have to get the latest and greatest. Find what works for you and don’t be afraid to stick with it. Only change if the benefits outweigh the cons.

Technology has the ability to make our days more productive when utilized with discretion and proper prudence. Don’t fall prey to the excess. Get exactly what you need and eliminate the rest. Only you know what will work best for you and your organization.

Question: What forms of technology make your workday more efficient?

Copyright © 2015 by Dan Nielsen – www.americashealthcareleaders.com