How to translate your business goals into technical initiatives

The challenge for many companies when it comes to technology is not lack of ambition – but to connect their business goals with technology. For digitalization to create real business value, technological solutions need to be seen as part of the large strategy, not something isolated.

Misplaced focus leads to poor investments

Viewing technical solutions as isolated often stems from focusing on the solutions themselves rather than the objectives. Companies that prioritize technology over business goals risk investing in the wrong solutions – solutions that fail to drive the business forward.

The importance of aligning business and technology

To ensure a technical solution creates long-term value for the business, it must be built around business objectives. This requires someone with a deep understanding of business development who can translate business goals into technical initiatives that truly support the company’s broader vision.

How do you translate a strategy into technical initiatives?

For technology to support business strategy, there must be a clear link between vision and execution. This is where a CTO or similar role becomes critical – but this expertise is often lacking. Read more about the CTO role here.

The key to developing a tech strategy from a business strategy is first clarifying what the company wants to achieve and then identifying the initiatives that best support those goals.

How to develop a tech strategy from your business strategy

1. Define your business goals

Set clear, measurable objectives for both the short and long term – they should guide all technical decisions.

3. Identify current processes and challenges

Analyze existing processes and identify bottlenecks. Understand what needs improvement to reach your goals.

3. Bring in someone who sees the big picture

A CTO or similar role is crucial to translating business strategy into technical initiatives.

4. Translate the objectives into technical requirements

Align technical solutions with business value. Prioritize the right initiatives instead of trying to do everything at once.

5. Measure and adjust continuously

Set milestones and track results. Digitalization is an ongoing process that requires adaptability.

Common pitfalls to avoid

Aligning business and tech is not always easy. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Defining solutions too early – Start with what you want to achieve, not how it should be done.

• Lack of long-term planning – Digitalization is an ongoing process, not a one-time investment.

• Underestimating the role of tech strategy – Technology must be an integral part of business strategy for investments to be effective.

Translating business goals into technology requires a structured approach where every step is linked to the long-term vision. With clear goals, the right tools, and the right expertise, you can create technical solutions that truly drive your business forward.