Last updated on Jul 14, 2024

You're proposing a network upgrade to non-technical decision-makers. How can you make it resonate with them?

When you're tasked with convincing non-technical decision-makers about the need for a network upgrade, you must speak their language, focusing on benefits rather than the technicalities. Imagine explaining how a faster, more reliable network isn't just about bandwidth; it's about empowering every facet of the business to operate more efficiently. This conversation is about aligning technology with business goals, ensuring that your audience understands the value of the investment from their perspective.

1 Understand Needs

Before diving into technical specifics, understand the unique needs of your audience. Your network upgrade proposal should address specific business challenges that decision-makers care about, such as improving productivity, enhancing customer experiences, or ensuring data security. By identifying these pain points, you can tailor your conversation to highlight how the network upgrade will directly address and alleviate these issues, thereby making the proposal more relevant and compelling to them.

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Rene Norbiato

Information Security practitioner | Privacy advocate
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As the person responsible for the technical issues, one needs to develop a relationship with the non-technical colleagues to really understand what the business needs so the technical team can deliver just that. By knowing exactly what the operations require, irrelevant technicalities can be avoided, therefore ensuring non-technical people remain interested in the conversation and clearly see that no unnecessary measures are taken. The priority is to improve business efficiency and operation by applying tailored technical solutions; this needs to be clear to the client throughout the conversation.

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Md. Ataur Rahman

Deputy Manager -System & IT, Mainetti (Bangladesh) Pvt. Ltd
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Convincing non-technical leaders about a network upgrade requires a shift in focus. Ditch the technical jargon and instead, emphasize the real-world benefits. Frame it around how the upgrade will make their lives easier: faster downloads, smoother video conferencing, and a more secure network. By using relatable examples, data-driven impacts, and highlighting future-proofing capabilities, you can present a compelling case that resonates with their business priorities.

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2 Simplify Concepts

To effectively communicate with non-technical stakeholders, simplify complex network concepts into relatable terms. Instead of discussing the intricate details of routers and switches, talk about the network as the company's digital highway, where data travels. Explain how an upgrade is like widening that highway to reduce traffic jams, resulting in faster and more reliable communication between departments and with customers.

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Joan Opio

ICT - Networking, Infrastructure, IT Service Delivery Mgmt, Networks & System Administrator and GVF
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It's very important not to use technical acronyms in your presentations. Simplify your presentation to address the main objective - what will the proposed upgrade improve interms of the business needs? keep it simple. Use soft skills as much as you can. For whom is the Upgrade for, why is the upgrade needed, what will it improve in terms of the business objectives, what is required- provide some budgeting so the that the stakeholders understand the cost implications (cost benefit analysis) and value for money in simple terms example without the upgrade we are at a risk of lossing critical records in our databases because the system is obsolete and prone to cyber threats. How do you plan to implement the upgrade.

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3 Highlight Benefits

Focus on the tangible benefits of the network upgrade. Emphasize how a modernized network can lead to increased efficiency, reduced downtime, and better collaboration among employees. Explain that these improvements can translate into cost savings and higher revenue, as well as a competitive edge in the market. By connecting the dots between the technical aspects and the business advantages, you make the upgrade relevant to their goals.

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Fernando Umpierre de Lima

Infrastructure and Platform Engineer
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Highlight how network stability is important for the company's operation and know the life cycles of the hardware and software in its structure. One of the biggest benefits of investing in new equipment is being covered by manufacturer support and get firmware updates.

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4 Address Concerns

Anticipate and address potential concerns upfront. Decision-makers might worry about the cost, disruption to business operations, or the time it takes to see a return on investment. Reassure them by explaining how the upgrade process can be staged to minimize disruption, and how long-term benefits, like lower maintenance costs and improved productivity, will outweigh the initial investment.

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5 Offer Assurance

Provide assurance by discussing support and training. Let them know that the transition to the upgraded network will be supported every step of the way, with training for staff to ensure they can make the most of the new system. This helps alleviate fears about the change and demonstrates a commitment to helping their team adapt smoothly.

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6 Future Proofing

Finally, talk about how the network upgrade is an investment in the future. Explain that as the company grows and technology evolves, having a robust and scalable network infrastructure will be crucial. It ensures that the business won't be left behind and will be prepared to adopt new technologies that can drive further success.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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You're proposing a network upgrade to non-technical decision-makers. How can you make it resonate with them?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Understand Needs

2 Simplify Concepts

3 Highlight Benefits

4 Address Concerns

5 Offer Assurance

6 Future Proofing

7 Here’s what else to consider

Network Administration

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You're proposing a network upgrade to non-technical decision-makers. How can you make it resonate with them?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Understand Needs

2 Simplify Concepts

3 Highlight Benefits

4 Address Concerns

5 Offer Assurance

6 Future Proofing

7 Here’s what else to consider

Network Administration

Rate this article

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