Introduction to Tech Stack

Every business or company uses some form of technology. Whether it’s the simple word processor and spreadsheets or sophisticated software that automates processes, technology is inevitable. Technological tools are rarely used in isolation, and this forms the basis of tech stack.

Keep on reading to learn more!

Understanding Tech Stack

A tech stack refers to a collection, set, or combination of technologies used by an organization to achieve its goals. It can be used to build web or mobile applications and comprises frameworks, programming languages, servers, software, libraries, and tools.

Tech stacks can be multi-purposes, assisting with functions across the board. They can also be specific to certain tasks like finance, marketing, sales, employee engagement, or project management.

The word stack has become prevalent because all these technologies interact with each other and can build upon each other. Not all the tools in the tech have to be integrated. However, thinking of them as a collective makes you more aware of how your business is operating as a whole.

 

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Factors to Consider When Building a Tech Stack

There are several factors to consider in the decision-making process, but you can narrow them down to a manageable set.

  •  Technology is Long-Term

Before adopting and implementing any piece of software in a company, it’s essential to think in the long-term. Some parts can be quite expensive to acquire, and getting rid of them in the wake of better options can be quite tricky. Other tools require a subscription, which means you’ll continue to incur an expense as long as you use them.

From this perspective, you can see why you shouldn’t choose tools that’ll be fine for a short while. When evaluating a tool, consider that you’re likely to be on it for a long time.

  • Does the Tech Stack Accommodate Company Growth?

According to Pat Buono, Revenue Operations Manager, different technology platforms are specialized for specific targets. Some are compatible with large enterprises, while others are for startups. As you piece together your preferred tech stack, consider how it fits into your company’s growth trajectory.

The tools you choose should meet both your business budget and needs at the moment. However, you don’t want that you have to change every few months. If your company is big, your tech stack might be expensive, but it also gives you more room for growth.

  • Who are the Tools For?

Another essential consideration to make is who will be using each tool and how it’ll help meet their needs. It’s best to consult the end-users so that they can give input on how the tool will impact their productivity. In addition, you should consider the training required and how easy or hard the process of employee onboarding will be.

An extendible platform that enhances productivity by the use of a single tool will provide a more streamlined onboarding process. However, it may not incorporate the depth of features as a function-specific platform. Choose what works best for your team.

  • How Do the Tools Work Together?

Whether you’re selecting a set of tools for the first time or adding to an already existing platform, check compatibility. Check if there are integrations that can make it easier to use them. Pat says that you should limit disparate systems if the combination is useful.

Avoid integrating tools just for the sake of it as they require regular maintenance for continued functioning. Poorly maintained integrations can be a burden as they bog down all connected platforms.

 

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  • Can the Tech Stack be Consolidated?

Tools that perform or accomplish the same task should be eliminated. The aim is to have a tech stack as small as possible. Consolidation, according to Pat, is a great philosophy that helps avoid having extraneous stuff.

The fewer the tools you have to manage, the easier it’ll be to report on them and also maintain them. This saves you money and reduces the time it takes to train the users. It’s also easier for employees to keep up with the processes of the tech stack.

  • Designation of Tools and Tasks on the Platform

As you choose the components of your tech stack, consider putting someone in charge of the different tools. Failure to designate this responsibility to someone who has the skills and bandwidth might see its performance dwindle.

Investing in technology is costly, and it’s more scalable and health for your company when someone is in charge. You want someone to monitor its operation and permission levels for the sake of efficiency and security. The team also has someone to turn to with questions in case something isn’t working right.

Not having someone responsible for the platform can lead to accidental errors by well-meaning employees. Think of when they try to fix something on the platform but don’t have the know-how.

Takeaway

Having the right combination of tools in your tech stack is the foundation of your processes. You should give much thought into how you build the platform. Remember that the technology you choose is likely to stay with you for a long time.

With the right tech stack in place, ensure you designate responsibility for its maintenance and analysis. This way, you’ll be assured that maximum value is obtained from the stack.