Converging Technologies – What does it all mean??

I often think of that very question, what does converging technologies really mean? Converging is a derivative of:

Taking into consideration the definition, converging or converge has nothing really to do with technology.  However, if you think about it, “converging technologies” has been around for a long time.  As I write this, I am reminded of one particular Christmas when I asked Santa for the newest and greatest 8-track, cassette and LP stereo system.  All the latest and greatest music media’s in one box, simple convenient and yet complex for its day.   I ear marked the last page of the JCPenney wish book to make sure Santa knew which one I was hoping for.

Today, one needs to look no further than day-to-day customer communications for a great example of converging technologies.   I receive my statements and bills via traditional print, but I pay on-line.  I receive banking alerts via text messaging, but still balance my checking account the old fashion way, with a pencil and a blank piece of paper.   I probably would fall into the category of a “fence sitter” – I receive paper documents, but transact and pay my bills on-line.  What would cause me to adapt a full electronic methodology?  That’s a good question, one that I really haven’t considered.

Does your firm have “fence sitters”?  Are you having a one-to-one dialogue with your customers?  It is important to utilize data intelligence and the capabilities to initiate and sustain a one-to-one dialogue, increase awareness and drive cross sell opportunities.  Perhaps even the right message will get that customer off the fence, educate them on adopting one media, one technology.  Something to think about over that holiday dinner…

Happy Holidays!