How the football Transfer Deadline Day relates to IT Services...

Having observed all of the football goings on last night (I love Transfer Deadline Day) something occurred to me this morning whilst my brain was being engaged back into work mode; The Transfer Deadline Day can be related to how businesses treat their IT Services.

Stick with me and I'll explain...

Manchester United | Carefully planned, no panic and a relaxed manager

Manchester United did their business very early in the summer. Their signings were well thought out. As the new players were brought in before a ball was kicked, they have had time to settle and get to know their new club and team mates. This represents the technically aware business owner. They know they need new services to improve their businesses productivity and efficiency. They bring in new services and solutions before anything has gone wrong. They can relax, safe in the knowledge that their business is utilising technology to develop.

Arsenal | Rebuilding after something has gone very wrong

You might not be a football fan, but to put this in context, Arsenal we're well and truly punished by Manchester United last week, losing 8-2, which is unheard of. As a result they have had to go through a quick rebuilding process. They represent a business which only commits to new solutions after something has gone badly wrong. The attitude of 'It'll be alright' can be seen in demonstration here. However when things to go wrong, it means a forced purchases, a little bit of panic and the business overall is affected.

Stoke City | Moving forward to the next level

Stoke City recently (as in over the last few years) joined the Premier League. They have settled in and found their feet. However they aren't happy with this any more and want to push to the next level. As a result they have been attracting International players such as England striker Peter Crouch. A few years ago this would be have been unheard of, however as they have worked hard and improved over time, they can and rightly so. This relates to an up and coming business who knows IT can improve their business. They don't rush into things, they simply add new solutions as and when the time is right for them. When it comes to a small business, you can't really argue with this sound approach.

I hope that gives you some food for thought. Football isn't everyone's cup of tea, I understand that, but I hope you understand the context.

About the author | Gavin Moorhouse likes his football. He has even been known to play a little as well.