Knowing “Why” You Do Things Can Reinforce Your “What”

Abstract

There is immense value in knowing what you provide to your customers and understanding that inside-out. However, knowing what you provide will only get you so far. Understanding why you do what you do can make all the difference in standing out from the rest of the businesses in your industry.

In short, your “why” is something that informs your everyday decision making and gives you purpose in whatever it is you have set out to do. For example, let’s say that your business provides a good or service to your customers. This is your “what,” but ask yourself “why” you are providing these goods or services. When you know the answer to this question, you will be able to provide a much greater experience, no matter the industry you are working in.

Of course, it’s easier to see the “what” vs the “why” when it’s used in action rather than in abstract discussion. For an example in action, check out this video from comedian Michael Jr:

Michael Jr. debriefs us at the end of the clip, explaining that the music instructor knew what he was singing in the first rendition, but why he was singing in the second, making it much more impactful as a whole. You can see how this principle can bleed into other aspects of your life, especially in the professional world and even in personal or self-development. Let’s take a look at how it can change your organization’s approach to business technology.

In IT, knowing your “why” is just as important as knowing your “what.” If you know what you need to do, that’s great and all, but understanding why you are doing it is also incredibly important. Yes, you want to purchase a new server, but why do you want to purchase a new server? What purpose is it fulfilling? What kinds of data are stored on it? What is it being used for, and why? Knowing all the answers to these questions will help you make an informed decision about purchasing the new hardware and what it can do for your organization.

This is important when considering how to train your employees, especially when it comes to security. Knowing what to do with technology can only go so far. In fact, some employees might go so far as to do the exact opposite of what you want them to do if you don’t adequately explain why they must do it. In the case of security, knowing what to do will help, but understanding why will reinforce the consequences of failing to adhere to established best practices.

We know what you should do: call NetMGM. As for why, you’ll find out when you start shifting your focus away from worrying about IT and instead start focusing on your organization’s purpose and goals. To learn more about what we can do for your business, reach out to us at 888-748-2525.