Some Thoughts on Technology

Technological innovation in hardware and software applications continues to make a major difference in how we live our lives and conduct our work.

This is especially true in the Oil and Gas industry. Just a decade ago, questions and answers had to go through phone calls, faxes or face to face meetings. Information was compiled and stored on paper documents in a limited number of locations. But today, questions can be answered instantly through e-mails and texts and information can be stored in one place yet easily accessed by an entire workforce via electronic devices.

Unfortunately, access to new technology alone does not guarantee improved results. We've all heard stories of someone we know with a phone that doesn't understand how to do the simplest tasks. Or of the company that purchased new software but never utilized it because the employees were uncertain of how to use it.

Here are two helpful reminders when considering new technology. First, educating and training the workforce is just as important as the technology itself. Products touted to save your staff time and energy cannot work if the staff doesn't fully understand how to use them.  Be sure to factor training and support into any purchase decision. Give users the ability to ask questions and build a firm foundation of success.

Second, continue to incorporate mobile technology into your processes.  Mobile adoption will continue to grow and will help drive improvements to organizational efficiency.  Mobile computing can provide a variety of benefits to the Oil & Gas industry including: data capture in the field, ease of collaboration from multiple locations, and better decision making. Many organizations understand these benefits, but are not fully implementing it into their operations. 

As with any new technology, there are issues to be addressed including: safety, data security and authorized areas for use.  New technology has the potential to empower employees and increase productivity.  Ultimately, you have to be willing to allocate the resources to get the technology into their hands and then make sure they really know how to use it properly.

To find out more about Accupoint’s mobile compliance technology, visit us at accupointsoftware.com or call us toll-free at 800.563.6250.