Hidden Costs of Outdated Technology

Outdated technology needs to be modernized.

“Yesterday’s home runs don’t win today’s games.” – Babe Ruth 

In business, as in baseball, what worked yesterday won’t necessarily win tomorrow. Technology is no exception. Outdated systems may have been home runs in their day, but clinging to them now can cost your organization more than you realize. These hidden costs—lost productivity, rising maintenance expenses, and heightened security risks—add up quickly, creating barriers to growth. 

On the flip side, investing in modern technology isn’t just about keeping up with the times; it’s about setting yourself up for a future where innovation drives profitability. Let’s explore the hidden costs of outdated systems, the undeniable ROI of modernizing your tech stack, and how to prioritize which systems to upgrade first. 

The Hidden Costs of Outdated Technology

1. Increased Maintenance Expenses

2. Reduced Productivity

Older systems can create bottlenecks that slow operations and frustrate employees. According to Innovation in Business, leveraging innovation can boost ROI by up to 69%, suggesting that reliance on outdated technology causes businesses to miss substantial productivity gains.

3. Security Vulnerabilities

Outdated technology lacks modern security measures, making it a prime target for cyberattacks. As Erbis emphasizes, “if you don’t dare to change, you will face serious problems,” including the risk of costly data breaches.

4. Compatibility Issues

Legacy systems often fail to integrate with new technologies, disrupting workflows and causing inefficiencies. Erbis notes that “integration of third-party services is not always possible with outdated technologies,” limiting your ability to scale and innovate.

The ROI of Modern Technology Investments

Investing in modern technology is a strategic move that delivers measurable returns: 

How to Prioritize Upgrades in Your Tech Stack

Modernizing your technology can feel overwhelming, so it’s essential to start with a clear strategy. Here’s how to prioritize: 

1. Identify Pain Points

Analyze where your business feels the most friction. Are outdated systems slowing down operations, frustrating employees, or creating inefficiencies? Start with the most disruptive issues. 

2. Assess Security Vulnerabilities

Conduct a security audit to identify legacy systems posing the greatest risk. Prioritize upgrades to systems that house sensitive data or are critical to your operations. 

3. Evaluate Business Impact

Focus on systems that directly contribute to revenue, customer satisfaction, or operational efficiency. Tools that are mission-critical should take precedence. 

4. Look for Quick Wins

Start with smaller, high-impact upgrades, like migrating to cloud-based collaboration tools or implementing automation in repetitive processes. These quick wins can deliver immediate ROI while building momentum for larger projects. 

5. Plan for Scalability

Invest in solutions that can grow with your business. Scalable, flexible technology ensures your investment pays off long-term. 

6. Consult with Experts

If you’re unsure where to start, a technology advisor can help you assess your current stack and develop a modernization roadmap. 

Outdated systems may seem harmless on the surface, but their hidden costs are far-reaching. From rising maintenance expenses to missed opportunities for productivity and innovation, the impact of clinging to old technology can be profound. Modernizing your tech stack is a powerful investment in the future of your business. 

If you’re ready to uncover the hidden costs of your outdated systems or want expert guidance on prioritizing your technology upgrades, we at Blue Tree are here to help. Let’s work together to transform your business. Reach out today to get started! 

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Strategic IT Planning for the New Year

With 2025 fast approaching, many of our executive clientele are reflecting on past decisions and planning for the

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What Is Shadow IT and How Is It Impacting Your Bottom Line?

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Strategic IT Planning for the New Year

With 2025 fast approaching, many of our executive clientele are reflecting on past decisions and planning for the future.

At Blue Tree Technology Group, we take strategic planning more seriously than simply adopting new tools and trends. We find efficient and innovative ways to align technology with business goals.

In this article, I share some tried and tested tips for strategic IT planning, including gap analysis, budget review, contingency planning, and integrating new technology systems. This article is intended to be a light read, but will cover several aspects you might want to consider to begin working towards developing a strategic IT roadmap for 2025.

1. Review Current State

Before you make plans for the new year, look back on the previous year, reviewing the current state of IT systems, infrastructure, and objectives. Recognize the goals made and what was actually accomplished so you can make necessary amendments going forward. Don’t forget to celebrate even the small successes and milestones, as those moments often get lost in the bigger picture, and identify losses and failures transparently.

Below are areas to consider when planning for the new year:

  • User Experience: Are your employees and customers benefiting from your tech innovation and accessibility?
  • Cybersecurity Measures: Are you and your clients protected against potential threats?
  • Software and Hardware: Are your existing systems up-to-date?
  • Performance Indicators: Are your processes ensuring reliability, speed, and capacity required to support your business objectives?

When you understand what works for you in the present, you can easily identify gaps, mitigate redundancies, and pinpoint areas for improvement and investment in the future.

2. Aligning Technology with Business Goals

Technology is not an underdog; it should be the a leading player in your business strategy. Start by meeting key stakeholders and the leadership of your organization to discuss business priorities for the next year. These might consist of entering new markets, acquiring new entities, developing new products, improving customer experience, and/or introducing new systems and processes.

Answers to the following questions will help bridge the gap between your business goals and IT planning.

  • What objectives do you plan on achieving in the next 12 months?
  • What obstacles are proving challenging to your company?
  • How can IT planning help achieve those goals?

For example, if operational efficiency is at the top of your list, invest in cloud computing solutions or automation tools to increase productivity and eliminate manual tasks.

3. Introducing New Technology Trends

The rise of technological innovation continues to surprise us, and the only way to survive this acceleration is to keep up with the latest trends. I’m not saying you have to run after every keyword, but you should be open to welcoming new technologies that complement your business goals.

Here are some upcoming trends to look out for:

  • Data Analytics: When used effectively, data can be proved a valuable resource by providing insight into efficiency and growth.
  • Cloud Computing: All businesses, irrespective of their size, are now able to acquire resources such as storage, software, and servers through a cloud computing service.
  • Evolution in Cybersecurity: In 2025, threat detection, zero trust architecture, and endpoint detection will help businesses combat cyber threats.
  • Artificial Intelligence: Most organizations are in the very beginning stages of trying to understand how to leverage AI to optimize their business. Those who are not finding small and big ways to put it into practice in 2025 will be outperformed by their competition in the years to follow.

4. Annual Risk Assessment

Did you encounter a data breach you weren’t technologically prepared for? Don’t let that happen in 2025! Treat cybersecurity as a priority; not an option.

You should be prepared to tackle cyber threats by installing protective systems to maintain customer privacy, safeguard vulnerable information, and avoid costly disruptions.

Your IT roadmap for 2025 should consider the following:

  • Human error poses a major risk to your business. Ensure your employees are familiar with the best cybersecurity practices and can easily identify phishing attempts and external fraudulent activities.
  • Identify loopholes in your existing systems and processes.
  • Communicate actionable steps within your team in case of potential breaches.
  • Systems like firewalls, multi-factor authentication, patch management, and end-to-end encryption help organizations secure their database.

The 2024 IBM Cost of a Data Breach Report revealed a 10% increase in breach costs from the previous year, resulting in the largest annual rise since the pandemic. This data indicates a potential increase in 2025 as well, and only businesses with strong defenses will be able to protect themselves.

5. Contingency Planning

Success and failure are unpredictable in the business landscape. However, your IT planning for the new year should cover areas for change, growth, and any mishaps.

Plan on scaling your operations next year? Embracing new technologies or navigating external challenges? A flexible IT plan will help you prepare for unpredictability.

  • Automate Workloads: When you automate manual workloads, you save time and eliminate chances of error, enabling your team to focus on making high-value decisions.
  • Advanced Solutions: Scalable solutions like modular software, cloud infrastructure, and subscription-based tools can boost productivity without major disruptions.
  • Hybrid and Remote Models: Don’t let geographical barriers hinder your success. In 2025, hire the best talent from across the globe, but ensure your IT systems can maintain secure and seamless connections with remote employees.

6. Budget to Support Your IT Investments

Think beyond the next year. Perhaps draft a 3-year budget that supports your strategic planning. Start by identifying your top priorities. New IT infrastructure, vendor proposals, compensating your IT team, new projects, or investment in modern technologies can help you plan ahead of time and set an estimate of what you’re likely to spend in the future.  

Involve your team to review your annual IT strategy and make budget recommendations on how IT can secure and sustain your future goals.  

For an effective IT budget: 

  • Prioritize Investments that deliver maximum ROI 
  • Include all costs related to IT solutions, maintenance, implementation, and training. 

7. Track Growth and Drive Results

A successful IT plan is not stagnant. Today’s business challenges and technology are changing every second, which means your strategy needs to be adjusted to new factors of success, as well. Make it tangible and delineate key performance indicators (KPIs) which will help in measuring the success of your annual IT strategy.

Consider the below KPIs:

  • Are your existing IT investments delivering the expected ROI?
  • Has user experience improved since the new installations?
  • Are IT systems running smoothly with minimum disruption?

Frequently visit your IT roadmap to track progress and adjust strategies to make sure they align with future business goals.

Wrapping Up Your Annual IT Planning Effort!

Strategic IT roadmap planning and development is not a one-time practice; it must be continuous and long-lasting. At Blue Tree Technology Group, we follow this through routine meetings, budget analysis, IT audits, and endorsing new technology plans.

Additionally, we partner with clients by regularly looking for ways to assist them in improving productivity, enhancing security, and building a trusted business community to increase their leverage.

Whether leveraging our team, another trusted advisor, or managing strategic planning inhouse, by following these steps in 2025 and making them a crucial part of your strategic IT planning efforts, you can avoid future headaches that may arise from a lack of preparation. If you invest wisely and stay adaptable throughout the year, you’ll notice the impact your planning made – not just on IT but your entire organization!

10 Signs You May Want To Hire A Technology Consulting Firm To Help Your Business

Have you ever wondered when the right time is to bring in a technology consulting firm to help your organization? 

One of the lessons many business leaders inevitably learn is that consultants are a very important part of growing a business. In fact, most established businesses get to a point where they recognize they could benefit from outside help.

Technology consulting services can positively impact efficiency, return on investment (ROI), productivity, and competitiveness for all sizes of businesses. They enable organizations to focus on their core business functions while leveraging the benefits of consulting.

How do you know when you need a technology consultant, and what do you look for to know how to choose the right one for your business? Here’s how.

What is a Technology Consultant (and What Do They Do?)

Technology consultants help companies address business needs and identify and solve problems by leveraging technology. They work with organizations to maximize their existing technology or how to invest in new technologies to support business goals.

Technology consultants play an integral role advising leaders on how technology can drive organizational success. They often work with internal IT staff on a wide range of activities, including:

  • Analyzing current IT processes and systems to identify issues and resolutions.
  • Establishing a technology budget.
  • Determining cybersecurity threats and implementing solutions to address them.
  • Assessing existing infrastructure and addressing maintenance needs and enhancements.
  • Designing and implementing new systems and processes.
  • Supplementing staff needs in key areas with the required expertise.

Technology consultants may manage short-term, long-term, and complex multi-phased projects. They keep a pulse on technology advances and make recommendations based on their clients’ needs.

10 Signs to Bring in a Technology Consultant

Now that you know what a technology consultant is, you may ask yourself how to know when to consider hiring one. Here are some of the ways to know a technology consultant may benefit your organization.

1. You need help keeping up with emerging technology—Technology is rapidly evolving, and running your business, serving your customers, and keeping tabs on technology trends can be challenging.

2. You’re struggling to meet (or set!) goals—Are you setting one-, three-, and five-year plans, and are you meeting your goals? A consultant can help you establish a roadmap to set goals with strategies to achieve them.

3. You want a spark of inspiration—Running a business can cause tunnel vision. Reaching out for a fresh perspective backed by data and experience provides exposure to new ideas you may not get within your organization.

4. You lack specialized skills—If you don’t have a specialized skill set that you’ll need for a particular project, it’s a good idea to look to bring in a consultant. Supplement your need for the time you require without bringing on permanent staff.

5. You need to supplement staff—Sometimes, you can’t wait to hire the right person for the job, or you can’t find someone with the right experience. Bring in an technology consultant who can fill those critical gaps.

6. You are seeking objectivity—A technology consultant can serve as a catalyst for change by providing much-needed objectivity. Change can be difficult, and an external resource who cares about your organization with the advantage of distance can provide fresh insight.

7. You need help growing your business—If your business financials don’t reflect your goal achievement, you may want assistance solving the gap.

8. You want to grow your employees—Technology consultants leverage their skills and experience to train and mentor staff to improve performance.

9. You’ve stalled out—Sometimes, businesses have a solid roadmap for the future but just don’t know how to implement it. Bringing in a consultant can provide the time, expertise, and resources to get you started.

10. You need a quick fix—Not all businesses have adequate resources to manage time-sensitive projects like regulatory compliance or the ability to exploit an opportunity. Bringing in an experienced technology consultant can help you ramp up quickly so you don’t miss out.

What Qualifies As a Good Consulting Practice

It should go without saying that any good consulting practice you consider has technological proficiency in the area(s) you need. Some specialize in particular areas like cybersecurity or infrastructure, while others offer more generalist services.

A generalist may be beneficial if you don’t know exactly what you need or have needs in multiple areas. Either way, they need qualifications and experience to support you.

Good consulting practices have technical chops, and their consultants have solid interpersonal and communication skills, attention to detail, and critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Some may have degrees and certifications, including Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), and Project Management Professional (PMP).

One of the most important and intangible qualifications of a good technology consultant is that they care. A good consultant not only wants to provide solutions to address business needs and problems, but they genuinely care about the outcome. If a consultant takes a long-term view of your relationship, it’s a good bet they understand the importance of this!

How to Choose the Right Tech Consultant

Knowing you could benefit from technology consulting is a great first step. Once you decide to hire a consultant, here are some recommendations for choosing the right one.

1. Ask a lot of questions. Don’t be shy, as you’ll potentially work with them. Ask detailed questions about their approach, experience, and client relationships.

2. Check their reviews, references, and track record. Do your homework and check their online presence and with your network. With apps like LinkedIn, chances are you know someone who may know them.

3. Consider their view. When you talk with the consultant, do they share details and take a long-term view? Do they focus on relationships or exclusively on results? Have they worked on multiple projects with companies, or do they tend to make one-time commitments? These can provide insight into what you might expect from working with them.

4. Do they have the expertise you need? Do you need a consultant for one project, or do you need multiple people with very specialized knowledge? This understanding can help you decide on current and potential future needs.

5. Review their website and marketing materials. Are they professional and clearly details their skills, expertise, and experience? Do they show well-documented case studies? Do their values align with yours? Pay attention to how they present themselves.

After you do your homework, sit with your decision a bit. Consider your research, what you heard, and what your network said. Ask yourself: is this an organization I can learn from, grow with, and get the support needed to build my business? You have found a partner if you can answer yes to all of these questions.

Selecting the right technology consulting firm can be overwhelming, but we believe we could be the perfect match for your company. With our extensive experience across diverse industries, we’re confident in our ability to support your unique needs.

Let’s explore how we can work together. Schedule a complimentary 15-minute strategy call.

What Is Shadow IT and How Is It Impacting Your Bottom Line?

In the ever-evolving landscape of enterprise technology, CIOs and CFOs are facing a new challenge – the rise of shadow IT expenses. 

As employees increasingly adopt and integrate external technologies without the explicit approval of the IT department, managing these unaccounted expenses has become a critical concern for organizations.  

In this article, we explore the complexities of shadow IT and provide a strategic approach for CIOs and CFOs to effectively manage and mitigate the associated costs.

What Is Shadow IT?

Shadow IT refers to the use of technology, software, and services outside the sanctioned and managed IT infrastructure of an organization. While employees may turn to shadow IT for its perceived agility and efficiency, the associated expenses often go unnoticed until they impact the company’s bottom line. Common examples include unauthorized software subscriptions, cloud services, and collaboration tools.

The unregulated nature of shadow IT can introduce significant risks and costs to an organization. Security vulnerabilities, compliance issues, and duplication of services are just a few of the challenges that can arise. Moreover, the financial impact of shadow IT expenses can be substantial, affecting budgets and hindering strategic planning.

Cisco tells us that 80% of end users access software unapproved by IT.

VP of Experian, Michael Bruemmer, says 80% of breaches start with employee negligence. This includes Shadow IT.

Shadow IT is clearly not as sinister as it sounds. It’s usually just the result of people looking for better ways to do their jobs. Unfortunately, this type of technology can be a huge source of problems if left unchecked. 

Strategic Approaches to Managing Shadow IT Expenses:

1. Visibility and Discovery

  • Invest in tools and technologies that provide comprehensive visibility into the entire IT landscape, including shadow IT.
  • Regularly conduct discovery audits to identify unauthorized applications and services in use within the organization.

2. Educate and Empower Employees

  • Foster a culture of transparency by educating employees about the risks associated with shadow IT.
  • Empower staff to communicate their technology needs, encouraging them to involve IT in the decision-making process.

3. Establish Clear Policies

  • Develop and communicate clear policies regarding the use of external technologies.
  • Implement approval processes that ensure all IT-related expenditures align with organizational goals and security standards.

4. Collaborate with Business Units

  • Work closely with different business units to understand their specific technology requirements.
  • Collaborate on finding solutions that meet both business and IT objectives, reducing the inclination to resort to shadow IT.

5. Implement Cost Management Tools

  • Utilize cost management tools to track and analyze IT expenses, providing insights into where resources are being allocated.
  • Establish benchmarks and key performance indicators to measure the efficiency and effectiveness of IT spending.

6. Continuous Monitoring and Adaptation

  • Implement a continuous monitoring system to stay abreast of changes in the IT landscape.
  • Adapt policies and strategies based on evolving technology trends and employee needs.

By comprehending shadow IT and adeptly controlling it, you can reduce security vulnerabilities, enhance operational efficiency, maintain secure operations within budget constraints, and empower your team with the necessary tools to amplify productivity.

Reach out to our team of expert technology advisors for professional guidance on managing shadow IT and keeping it under control.