If those new tools aren't intuitive, if they aren't user-friendly and offer an interface that actually accelerates your in-house processes, that new tech solution that you just paid for is going to become a detriment if it slows things down for the people using it. And your business will suffer.

Does that mean your people have to be consulted in every decision you make with regard to selecting new business tools? No. That decision — and it had best be an informed one — is the responsibility of the agency principal. However, it's critical to bear in mind precisely what you wish to achieve by employing new processes — and then finding the right tool for the job.

The right tool for the job

Now more than ever, large companies are turning to vendors that offer "cost-effective" solutions that come with an attractive price tag. Promises are made, of course, to provide support in the event of any issues. It's not always mentioned that that support is often handled by third-party staff in countries where English is not their first language. And when your work is suffering and you're desperate for help to make things right when things go pear-shaped, the last thing you'll need is a communications barrier exacerbating the technical issues at hand.

In this month's cover feature we offer five strategies for making technology work for your agency. While there is no "silver bullet" or one-size-fits-all magic key that will work for everyone, Rosalie Donlon and NU's new Senior Editor Elana Jefferson give you more than a few options to consider in improving your own processes.

Regardless of the strategy you pursue, however, remember this: If you're going to spend good money on some new tools, make sure they work — for all the players in your bullpen.