When Older is Bolder: Old Technology vs. New Technology at the Office
Microsoft made Windows 8 available to the masses in October 2012. The company said the new user interface improved upon Windows 7 and earlier versions of the operating system. Although new technologies often have some benefits, there are times when those benefits do not outweigh the benefits of using old technology for business. It is important to compare old technology vs. new technology when selecting products because the latest technology is not always the best solution.
Sometimes Older is Bolder
Keeping the old technology in your office does have its benefits. The major advantage of staying with the technology you have is that you do not have to pay for new equipment. If your current computers meet your company's needs, then you probably don't need to upgrade them just because there are newer models available. Another benefit of keeping old technology in your office is that you do not have to spend time and money training employees to use new systems. When your employees are used to the features and quirks of a particular device, they can use that device efficiently. If you choose to install new technology, there is a learning curve that can reduce productivity and make it difficult for employees to get things done. Consider these benefits when comparing old technology to new technology.
Technology is Constantly Changing but How Relevant is it to You?
As tech industry insiders come up with innovative ways of doing things, they release updates of their previous products or replace older products entirely. As a business owner, you must review the latest technology and determine if it makes sense to replace your existing equipment and software packages. When you are comparing old technology to new technology, you must consider cost and performance. If you are replacing a desktop computer, for example, you will want to compare your current system's specifications against the specifications of newer systems. If your current computers have fast processors and enough memory to support users who perform multiple tasks at the same time, you may be able to hold off on upgrading. If your old technology does not perform well, or users complain that they cannot use your existing equipment efficiently, it may be time for new computers. Repeat this review with any mobile phones, tablets, or other tech devices used by members of your organization.
Don’t Hold on for Too Long
When comparing old technology to new technology, you must determine the cost of upgrading to new systems versus the cost of staying with your current system. If you are currently experiencing system issues that require you to pay an IT consultant or give your IT employees overtime, it may be worth it to upgrade to a new system that has fewer issues. If your current system works well, you may not be able to justify the cost of purchasing a new one. The cost of upgrading will depend on the products you select and how much support you need in installing the new equipment. If you purchase a new computer, you may spend as little as a few hundred dollars to as much as several thousand dollars depending on the computer's specifications. You may also have to pay a consultant to install the new system and get your employees up to speed on using it.
In some cases, it makes more sense to stick with your current system than it does to spend money on a new one. As a business owner, you must be able to determine your technological needs and decide whether the old technology you are using is really helping your employees get the job done. If it is not, then investing in new technology can help increase productivity.