We all have those moments when we see a new product and wonder if it would improve our lives like the advertisement claims. This goes for IT Principals as well, as they have a similar debate when new technology is unveiled in the IT channel. Unfortunately for most companies, they do not have the ability to buy every device and see what impact it could have on their business.
That is not the case for Tom Soderstrom, the CTO of IT at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, who spoke at the CITEworld Conference. According to the executive, he has created an "IT petting zoo" where he regularly brings consumer technology into the office to play with it and see what kind of effect it will have on daily operations. It has reached the point that many co-workers have given him the nickname "chief toy officer."
"Consumer-driven IT is real, affordable and fun. Work can be fun and should be fun. We need to attract the next generation of explorers," Soderstrom said. "The point is to be daring."
He added that ideas can come from anywhere and business should not be afraid to "productize" them and possibly fail. If you are successful, that can lead to a new process that can last for years.
Even with deep pockets that help companies bring in all the latest technology on a trial basis, businesses still need to have the right resources available to adopt the technology. With the help of an experienced VAR or MSP—especially one that is partnered with VAR Staffing—any company can find the impactful talent it needs.
