Technology as a Tool for Human Connection
In today’s tech-driven world, it’s easy to get caught up in the allure of the latest apps and platforms. But as I emphasize in The Designated Motivator for Accounting Professionals and my Reassess Your Success courses, technology is just a means to an end. Its real value lies in how it impacts the people using it—your team and your clients.
Key Considerations for Evaluating Technology:
- Understand Who’s Using It
- Client-Facing Tools: Consider the client’s perspective. Does the tool make their life easier, or does it add frustration? For example, if a tool requires too many steps or isn’t mobile-friendly, clients may avoid using it.
- Internal Tools: Focus on your team’s experience. Are they facing any barriers, such as a steep learning curve or inefficiencies? Do they feel confident using the tool?
- Evaluate User Experience (UX)
- It’s crucial to gather feedback from both sides. If your team loves a tool but clients find it cumbersome, or vice versa, it’s a red flag. Ideally, the tool should enhance both the internal workflow and the client’s journey.
- Match the Tool to the “Job”
- Every piece of tech in your stack should serve a specific purpose. For instance, in my firm, we chose Liscio to streamline secure document sharing and client communication. It serves as a single source of truth for messages, eSignatures, and tasks, improving transparency and efficiency for both staff and clients.
Why This Approach Works:
- Improved Client Experience: Clients appreciate tools that save them time and reduce friction.
- Enhanced Team Productivity: When your team has the right tools, they can focus on high-value tasks instead of chasing down information.
- Stronger Feedback Loop: Continuous improvement is possible when you actively listen to users and make adjustments.
Final Thoughts:
Remember, technology is a tool, not the solution itself. Its power lies in how it supports your team and your clients. By continually evaluating its effectiveness from a human perspective, you’ll build a tech stack that delights users and drives business success.
