Given these technology-related challenges, how do companies adapt without losing focus on delivering quality customer service every day?

At Premier Eye Care, we have found that technology solutions come down to making investments in quality people and the right technology. Here are two tips that can be helpful:

1. Develop a technology platform that’s flexible.

Build processes that allow for long-term growth and near-term process adjustments. Have a process in place to define future needs and identify next-generation technology, while constantly searching for innovative solutions to meet immediate needs.

Big data is worthless unless it’s easily accessible. Charge your IT team with designing, implementing and maintaining technology systems that can quickly extract the data your team needs without manipulation.

Organizations must remain nimble and be willing to pivot quickly to meet the demands of an ever-changing environment. At Premier, we accomplish this by forming interdisciplinary teams that bring different skills and sensibilities to each challenge.

2. Build an IT brain trust.

As you look to hire talented IT professionals, hire the person first and the skill set second. Given that the IT professionals considered for joining your team will have the requisite mastery of their technology, vet candidates to see if they match the values of your corporate culture. At Premier, these values include self-direction, open communication, continuous feedback and solutions orientation.

Business users have to be part of designing the solution to ensure it will address their needs, as well as those of external clients. Our commitment to a multi-directional integration of the IT team with our business teams promotes technology solutions that are laser focused and relevant to changing internal and external customer needs. The more engaged your IT team is with your entire organization, the better positioned it will be to contribute to the growth and success of the company.

Knowing how the industry works and how your company meets the needs of the space is as critical to IT professionals as it is to the business teams.