KATHMANDU: Achieving success in this technology-dominant era is far more complicated than putting a personal computer and printer on a desk. Entrepreneurs have to understand how to take advantage of an IT infrastructure, including a robust network, to compete more effectively. Ultimately, it is as much about vision — and developing a viable strategy — as it is about actual computing.

Businesses that excel make technology strategies that help them gain a competitive advantage through cost savings, process improvements, faster marketing, and improved quality and service levels. Macha Raj Maharjan, IT supervisor at Citizen’s Bank, says, “Technology upgrading makes one more comp-etent, which assists in delivering quality service to customers. It also helps make decisions faster.” According to him, upgrading the system has helped the bank communicate and transfer data faster within its 33 branches.

Citizens Bank embraces a process for evaluating its technology goals and requirements before implementation. According to Maharjan, through market research and users’ feedback, they document the tech-nologies that they already have in place and determine the strengths and shortcomings of current systems and their relative importance to business objectives. “We determine the need to up-grade technology through market research and estimation of probable benefits,” he informs, adding that the company usually upgrades database, anti-virus, hardware and operating systems on a regular basis.

Updating software frequently keeps all the significant resources tuned up, current, and free from defects. In the case of anti-virus and anti-spyware software, it means receiving the latest definitions on whatever infection is new to the internet and making the rounds. This makes it easier to prevent mishaps later on. Nowadays it is simple to keep the software updated, since many software manu-facturers give the option of automatic or manual updates. Many companies are seeing automation of their businesses as a sure-fire and efficient way to increase profits. Man Roka, managing director of View Nepal Web Housing Pvt Ltd, says, “Up-to-date software allows

efficient organisation and employers achieve a high level of control. All the required information is at your fingertips.”

Roka suggests searching the market and examining software programmes with care before making a choice. “Along with assessment of budget and software installation, upgrading is also a necessary process,” he adds. While it is not possible to predict each and every need of the company beforehand, upgrading the system becomes necessary to fulfil any organisational need and secure the system.

Maharjan informs that they have access level and user privilege in order to prevent inform-ation leakage. The central system controls the information and other security. However, there are network security and password protection systems too. Stating that periodical technology updates and employees’ trainings help uplift the company, he says, “The system makes work easier and more suitable to the present competitive market. Regular updates will ensure our software is up to date and the business will grow. Trying to save in an upgrade might result in bigger losses later.” All entrepreneurs agree that businesses today cannot survive without playing smart and getting updated with the latest technology.