Simplify to satisfy

It’s funny how some of the universal truths of the world we live in can be directly translated in the world of IT. For example, getting philosophical, I’ll reference the well known Maslow’s “hierarchy of needs”. Most of us would like to believe that we are at the top level of this pyramid, self actualization. In this level of hierarchy, we desire to realize our full potential, or in other words, be all that we can be. But what happens when both IT professionals and users find themselves at this level of the pyramid?

This constant thrive for self-realization often leads to a paradox. The more you get or achieve, the more you will want because when you have achieved what you want, you no longer desire it. Instead,  you have to desire something new.  Something perceived as bigger or better.

When you consider that this is how many individuals operate, it’s easy to see how this can turn into a challenging, never ending cycle in everyday life, and also in the world of IT. How can you successfully deliver IT services to a user base with never ending desires?

Standardization may seem like a logical choice for today’s IT departments from a cost savings perspective, and it certainly fills IT’s desire to be efficient and well managed — the best it can be. But does it make sense when you consider the needs of today’s user base? (A user base with an infinite desire for flexibility, personalization and ease of use.)

When you take the time to see IT from a user’s perspective, standardization doesn’t seem like a viable option. Yet, many companies feel it’s the only way IT departments can reap benefits like:

• Predictable, hassle-free experiences for users
• A controlled environment that always works
• Cost effectiveness to compensate for declining budgets

This balance between the benefits of standardization and a user’s desire for personalization, mobility and flexibility has become one of the core challenges for IT. Plato once said that “necessity is the mother of  invention,” meaning that when we really have to, we can solve almost any problem.

This has driven a lot of “creativity” in IT. Keeping certain users within an organization happy has led to an endless and complex combination of scripts and manual tasks. In the end, IT has grown so complex.

But these are not the solutions that will align the needs and desires of users and IT. In the end, it’s simplification that will bring the most resolution to this challenge.

With RES Software, IT can simplify these complexities and:

• Redefine traditional infrastructures, giving users the personalization they need based on their context
• Automate tools processes to enable IT reach efficiency and improved levels of management
• Prepare organizations to move towards fully dynamic desktops

This harmonious balance between the desire of IT and users may seem like a utopia, but it’s actually something that thousands of our customers have successfully implemented in their organization.

At RES Software we believe that the mission of IT is to delight and protect - empowering employees and protecting the interests of the organization. The solutions we develop are tools for IT professionals to achieve this.

Are the interests of users and IT professionals consistent in your organization?