Let’s face it: the greatest tech solutions often never reach their full potential.
Not because they’re flawed. Not because they’re underfunded. But because they’re lost in translation.
The Communication Gap That Holds Innovation Back
In my years navigating both the technical and executive landscapes, one truth has become painfully clear:
If your tech solution doesn’t speak business, you’re not speaking to the right audience.
Tech professionals often default to technical specs, system diagrams, or engineering brilliance when presenting a new solution. And while this works well within R&D circles, it frequently misses the mark with business leaders whose decisions are guided by value, risk, and return.
The real challenge? Shifting the narrative from functionality to impact.
Leading with Business Value
Whether it’s a new platform, automation tool, or process framework – success comes when you position it as a solution to a business problem.
Ask yourself:
- What pain point does it solve?
- What opportunity does it unlock?
- How does it make life better for users, customers, or stakeholders?
These aren’t just marketing questions. They’re strategic imperatives.
What’s Worked for Me
In my leadership journey, especially while transforming product and innovation strategy at a recent position I had, these principles have helped turn technical initiatives into boardroom priorities:
- Focus on human impact: How does the solution improve workflows, reduce friction, or enable better decisions?
- Build relationships early: Internal champions can help refine your message and advocate for adoption.
- Tailor your language: Translate capabilities into outcomes. Speak the language of the CFO, the COO, or the sales director.
It’s Not Dumbing Down – IT’S SMART COMMUNICATION
Many technical leaders fear that simplifying their message dilutes its power. In reality, the opposite is true.
Clarity is influence
When you align your innovation with strategic business goals, you earn not just understanding – but buy-in.
Closing Thought
Technology doesn’t exist in a vaccum. Its value is measured by the problems it solves and the possibilities it enables.
So the next time you pitch a new idea, ask yourself: “Am I explaining how it works – or why it matters?”
That distinction could make all the difference.
