Technology permeates almost all activities that we engage in nowadays. Nigeria is not doing badly in the advancement of technology in its usage for work and business. As Nigerians race towards achieving maximal technology use and benefits, it is important that their family and personal lives do not suffer in the process.
Technology has a somewhat bitter-sweet impact on family live. On the positive side, technology brings family together. Even when one is miles away from the family, it is easy to stay in touch, for instance, through Skype. As technology, however, brings the family together, it may, at times, alienate the family. Though the members may be together, they may all be on different technological platforms with little concern about what the other members are saying or doing.
Therefore, like a deer attracted to incoming headlights, we must take measures to see to it that technology works positively for rather than against us in our personal and family lives. On the ICT Radio Show of October 14, 2014 on Nigeria Info 99.3 FM, Mr. Hashim Zein was accompanied by Mr. Charles to talk to CFA on how technology can be used to get families together and simultaneously ensure prosperity at work and in business.
Mr. Zein maintained that with new technology come new responsibilities. Sure, you will get faster communications and information delivery, but conversely, it is easy to get drawn in. Many people, at times, find themselves in places or technological platforms that they never intended to join initially. They may be consequently distracted from the family. This is probably why some corporations such as BCG and Volkswagen at certain times will allow their employees to go on leave where they will be disconnected from work-related technology.
Technology is, however, not an evil monster. In fact, this could probably be the best time for Nigerian SMEs to grow and develop using technology. The tools availed by technology will allow a person to do more without spending a lot of money. This is good for the business. Technology also delivers efficiency which saves the business time. Such time can be spent with the family.
Mr. Charles suggested that the Society And Technology Conference organized for the 28-29th of October 2014 at the Civic Center, Victoria Island in Lagos would be a good place for one to learn how work and family can be seamlessly integrated through technology. The theme of the conference is The E-Citizen The Future Today; Be Smart Be In charge. It will also help SMEs, and other parties to understand the trends and lifestyles of the e-citizen. Understanding this will then help them find the best avenues to market products to prospects.
Tools That SMEs Can Use For Better Work And Family Integration
Technology does offer incredible tools. The maximum benefits can only be realized if the right people are found to use them appropriately. SME’s, thus, need to look for the best hands to utilize these tools.
Collaborative tools like Microsoft 360, Google apps and Zoho suite are ideal tools and if used well will benefit SMEs greatly without adversely affecting family and personal life.
The ICT Radio Show will continue to help you succeed in your career, business and entire life through proper use of technology. Listen in on Nigeria Info 99.3 FM every Tuesday at 1:30pm or on http://learn.ictwithcfa.com/
