Opening a veterinary practice comes with a long list of decisions. Computers and Wi-Fi may seem like some of the easier ones. Buy a few computers, get the internet working, set up the printers, and move on to the next thing.
But we’ve seen how those early technology decisions can affect a practice long after opening day. A computer in the wrong location, unreliable Wi-Fi, a printer that doesn’t fit the workflow, or a network that wasn’t planned for future growth can create small frustrations for your team every day.
That’s why we encourage new practice owners to think about technology as part of the practice itself, not simply a list of equipment to purchase.
Start With How Your Team Will Work
Before deciding what hardware to buy, think through what actually happens during a normal day.
How many people will need computers at the front desk? Where will your clinical team need access to patient information? Will doctors use laptops, tablets, or workstations in exam rooms? Where will labels and documents need to print? What equipment will need to connect to your network?
Your practice management software matters here, too. The hardware, network, internet connection, printers, lab equipment, and software all need to work together.
Planning those pieces together can help you avoid having to solve problems after the practice is already busy.
Don’t Forget What You Can’t See
Computers and printers are easy to remember because your team uses them every day. Some of the most important technology in your practice, however, may be behind the scenes.
Your network, Wi-Fi coverage, internet connection, firewall, switches, backups, and security all help support the technology your staff relies on. This is also where planning ahead matters.
Your technology should support the practice you’re opening today while giving you room to add people, equipment, and services as the practice grows. Spending some extra time on these decisions before opening can make future changes much easier.
A Helpful Resource for New Practice Owners
Our partners at NectarVet recently created a comprehensive Starting a Veterinary Practice guide that walks new practice owners through many of these decisions. We were glad to contribute as a trusted veterinary IT resource because the guide encourages something we believe strongly in: planning your technology around how your practice actually operates. The guide covers technology considerations for the front desk, clinical team, and practice manager, along with networking and security equipment that can be easy to overlook when you’re building a new practice.
NectarVet also includes information about its practice management platform and Free Tier software package for new clinics. If you’re in the planning stages of a new veterinary practice, it’s a useful resource to review before you start purchasing technology.
Read NectarVet’s Starting a Veterinary Practice Guide
And if the technology side of opening a practice feels like a lot to sort through, we’re happy to help. Our goal is to help you understand what you need, what you don’t, and what makes sense for the practice you’re building.