The High Cost of Doing Nothing
(2 minute read)
Since the beginning of this year, we’ve heard some interesting thoughts from our clients:
- “If something is broken, I’ll call you. Otherwise, we’re fine for now.”
- “I can’t think about new programs/computers/anything right now.”
- “Our I.T. consultant gave us new computers. Are you sure our old software can’t work with them?”
Those in management positions may think they are saving money by putting off decisions until “later”, whenever that happens. What they don’t realize is that by not making those decisions and not doing anything, they put themselves and their firms at a disadvantage. While cutting costs may seem like good financial strategy, neglecting your technology can lead to inefficiencies, security risks, and missed growth opportunities.
It might seem obvious, but here’s a fact that still surprises people: Technology, when properly applied, exists to make your life easier!
- It provides the data you need to make crucial business decisions.
- It streamlines operations, automates repetitive tasks, and improves workflow management.
- It gives firms a significant edge by offering better services, improving customer experiences, and optimizing operations.
- It attracts new employees which is a key advantage, particularly for those businesses with leaders considering succession plans.
Conversely, NOT keeping up and sticking with the same old, same old creates problems – some of them with a high cost:
- Keep old hardware and try to “make do” with outdated programs, and your employees may spend unnecessary time on manual tasks, leading to decreased productivity. Outdated systems slow down processes and create bottlenecks that hinder efficiency, ultimately impacting your business’s bottom line.
- This year the present federal administration plans to impose significant tariffs on goods manufactured outside of the United States and imported for sale into the United States. Many goods sold in this country come here from China. As China produces or assembles a substantial quantity of electronics items, it is logical to assume this will be an area significantly impacted by these proposed tariffs.[1]
- Cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving, and businesses that fail to update their programs and operating systems expose themselves to serious security risks. Windows 10 end-of-life is scheduled for October 14, 2025. After that date, Microsoft will no longer provide service releases, patches or technical support for that operating system. Outdated software and legacy systems are prime targets for cybercriminals. A data breach can not only result in financial loss but also damage a company’s reputation and customer trust.
- Many of our clients want to look to the future and are involved in succession planning. If yours is a business where you want to plan and hire “new blood”, it won’t happen if prospects look at your old hardware and ancient programs. As one of our clients mournfully told me, “If they (new hires) can’t have it on their phone, then it doesn’t exist as far as they are concerned.”
Let’s get back to the central point of this article: Technology, when properly applied, exists to make your life easier! In challenging times, sticking your head in the sand or being reactive is not an option. Businesses that embrace technological advancements position themselves for success, while those that resist change risk being left behind. At Business Solutions, we’re here to help identify your needs and recommend solutions to help you apply technology that works for you, and not against you. Call us at 202-466-3740 or contact us on our website, https://bsi-dc.com/contact/.
[1] ABA GPSolo eReport, “TAPAS: Tariffs, Technology and Tariffs: Buy Now!”, Jeffrey M. Allen and Ashley Hallene, March 2025.
Dana Riel is President and Founder of Business Solutions, Inc., serving the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area since 1985. Her firm is the authorized training center for the region for Time Matters and PCLaw by PCLaw|Time Matters, PLLC; Timeslips and Sage 50 Accounting by Sage Software; and QuickBooks by Intuit Corporation. She also serves as a consultant for Caret Legal (formerly known as Zola Suite), CosmoLex, Soluno & TimeSolv. As a trainer, Dana has provided training services to organizations such as the DOD Defense Logistics Agency, Judge Advocate General’s Office (JAG)/Department of the Navy, University of the District of Columbia School of Law, U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, as well as with small‐ to mid‐size law firms in the Baltimore‐Washington D.C. area. In 2009, she participated in the series of day‐long seminars sponsored by the District of Columbia Bar Association Practice Management Section, titled “Basic Training: Learn About Running a Law Office”. Ms. Riel also served as an Adjunct Professor in Georgetown University’s Paralegal Studies Program, having taught the course, “Legal Ethics/Legal Technology” in 2009; and “Legal Technology” for the Spring and Summer Semesters of 2010.