Organizations that take a reactive approach to technology face an increased risk of data breaches or regulatory missteps. Protecting your assets requires you to first take the time to evaluate the threats that your organization faces. It's easy to be blindsided by a crisis when you can't see the forest through the trees.

Often the lack of technology planning around security stems from the fact that businesses assume they aren't an attractive target. The reality is that you don't have to be a global bank or a massive retailer to be at risk. Attacks on small businesses happen with alarming regularity and the issue is compounded by the prevalence of insufficient technology planning. There is also a common misconception that compliance considerations are limited to companies in highly regulated segments such as healthcare or finance. While such industries are subject to additional scrutiny, any business that accepts credit card payments, collects customer data or maintains employee records must adhere to certain compliance guidelines. Developing clear policies for how to manage and store such information will reduce your exposure for fines or other regulatory complications.

Taking a more strategic approach to technology planning allows you to shift your IT focus towards areas that can drive tangible business value. The resources saved through reducing wasteful spending and avoiding the costs of security breaches can be reallocated into solutions that help drive customer acquisition and retention.