A technology plan is a road map for deploying Internet- and network-based business solutions.

It covers hardware, software, and network services such as Internet access and security--but that's only the beginning.

Your technology plan is a strategic tool and should be tightly integrated with your overall business plan.

Wherever appropriate, it should provide a technology- or Internet-based solution for key business challenges.

These challenges include reducing costs, finding and serving new markets, streamlining processes, improving employee collaboration, increasing productivity without having to add new employees in a tight labor market, and improving customer service.

The ideal technology plan establishes a solid foundation for growing your business in the Internet economy, through electronic communication, collaboration, commerce, and business processes. Often, this requires taking a completely new approach to business activities such as sales, marketing, procurement, human resources, design, and distribution.