IT and ICT have been evolving at a considerable pace; however, their use by Caribbean organisations is still poor. We discuss some of the reasons why.
Without a doubt, IT/ICT has become the lifeblood of business. Not only do they govern the way we communicate, both internally and externally, they also provide a means through which to optimise the business’ operations, resulting in better performance and even cost savings. Further, prices technology have dropped considerably in the past decade or so, and it has become increasingly accessible, thus allowing micro, small or medium enterprise (MSME) to be able access a broad range of products and services that are no longer restricted to large corporates.
Having said this, and upon closer scrutiny, technology in many organisations, especially in the Caribbean, is a hodgepodge of equipment and software applications. Incompatibility between the devices and/or the software is the norm to some degree; breakdown of the computer or communications network or system is frequent; and it can be a challenge to keep abreast of the different requirements of all of the constituent elements.
The situation described can appear far removed from all of the developments that have occurred in the IT/ICT space, however, below are some reasons why the availability and use of technology in the majority of Caribbean organisations is still poor.
Improvements made incrementally
The practice among most organisations has been to make incremental improvements to their systems and networks, where matters are addressed based on urgency or agreed priorities. It therefore means that comprehensive, organization-wide, upgrades or replacements, are rarely implemented – and the hodgepodge continues.
Further, it is unlikely that networks and systems are ever truly considered wholistically, with a true appreciation for all of the links and relationships that not only affect how the organisation operates, but also how its employees interact with those networks and systems. In the absence of an wholistic approach, an organisation is more likely to make poor tech purchases, which although they might appear to address an immediate need, could be regretted in the longer run.
Reluctance to invest in the systems adopted
In many countries across the Caribbean, computers and computing devices can be imported either with zero import duties and taxes, or they are subject to discounted rates. However, and especially among MSMEs, there is still a need to weigh whether to purchase the “cheap and cheerful” product, or to invest in the less budget friendly, but less problematic, option.
In a similar vein, firms are also reluctant to pay for the advice or technical assistance essential to optimise and maximise their systems in keeping with their needs. Although a considerable amount of information is freely available online, it tends to be a one-size-fits-all approach. An experienced tech professional would be able to advise the client based on their specific needs and priorities, whilst managing challenges and peculiarities that might exist. However, good advice does not come cheap, and unfortunately, Caribbean organisations are still not prepared to pay for it, but complain bitterly when the consequences (of that decision) are experienced.
No long term plan in place
Following from the first point, where an incremental approach tends to be the norm, preparation of a longer term schedule of improvements is rarely done. It therefore means that the development of an organisation’s digital infrastructure is likely to be ad hoc, and lacking in comprehensive and cogent thought, which would tend to obtain if a longer term had been established.
Having said this, it could be argued that for smaller organisations with limited budgets the only practical approach is to address their digital issues as and when the need arises. However, it is perhaps even more crucial when funds are limited to ensure: that the firm is getting the best bang for the buck; that purchases have some longevity; and that they are compatible with the current systems.
Unable to keep up with the speed of change
Whilst most of the reasons discussed above speak to matters that organisations can control, it must be re-emphasised that we have been experiencing an incredible pace of technological development. Manufacturers are releasing newer iterations of their products every year, which means that within two to three years, older products are no longer being supported.
However, most organisations, particularly those in the Caribbean cannot abandon those products as easily. In many instances, not only do the products still have some book value in their accounts, but the organisations themselves need a longer time frame within which to recoup the value of their investment,
Image credit: Bob Mical (flickr)
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A paramount point to note when evaluating capital expenditure in technology is that all businesses firstly look at the pay-back. Is this investment going to pay-back? If it is, over what period?
I know this position I present does not sound tech-friendly enough. But I have been on the other side of the fence long enough to appreciate why organisations are ( or rather could ) still be poor in ICT deployment.
People and organisations providing ICT services therefore need to approach the business community with the pay-back message in mind, rather than how-things-will-improve.
I think that the whole issue stems from the people who run these business are themselves technologically illiterate.
And no matter how much the experts in the field advise them, they will continue to refuse to spend on technology if it appears to them to be not-value-for-money.