When running a business, you may get a lot of unsolicited advice, specifically when it comes to cybersecurity. One term you may hear repeatedly is “tech stack.” This term refers to the collection of technologies, hardware, tools and frameworks used to run your business, including both front-end and back-end components. Understanding your tech stack and how it supports your business’s core functions ensures you can optimize performance, enhance security and make informed decisions aligned with your strategic goals.

What Exactly Counts as Your Tech Stack?

A tech stack can be defined as the software and digital tools that support a company’s operations and IT infrastructure, including assets such as: 

• Accounting software
• Customer relationship management platform
• Project management tools
• Cloud storage
• Communication apps
• Security tools (EDR, MFA)
• Collaboration suites (Microsoft 365/Google)
• Data Analytics/Business Intelligence

A well‑architected stack streamlines workflows, protects data and fuels growth—if it’s actively managed. Unfortunately, as your tech stack grows, it can leave your company struggling with overspending, inefficiencies and low employee adoption. This can be caused by underused technology, fragmented IT strategy and low employee adoption of tech tools. The average small to mid-sized business (SMB) wastes 17% of SaaS spend annually on unused licenses (Gartner, 2024). Over time, companies often layer technologies upon technologies, sometimes introducing redundant or extraneous tools that are largely ignored. 

To combat these challenges, it's crucial to conduct regular IT assessments, ensure seamless integration of tools and prioritize user training and engagement. For every application in the stack, confirm it’s protected by multi‑factor authentication, included in your regular patching cadence, covered by strong endpoint‑protection controls and vetted through your third‑party risk review process.

Five Factors to Consider

The key to managing your tech stack without overspending is balancing functionality and innovation. Focus on these five areas:

1. Composition: Regular audits of IT general and application controls help business owners stay informed about their tech stacks. These are formal, systematic reviews of your IT infrastructure, revealing redundant software subscriptions and underused licenses.
2. Integration/Compatibility: Ensure your tech tools integrate well to avoid data silos and redundant work, which lead to errors and reduced productivity. Target tools that integrate well across your operations.
3. Price to Value: Budget carefully but avoid choosing IT tools solely based on cost. Cheaper solutions can increase expenses due to inefficiencies and the need for additional tools. Misconfigured cloud services caused 45% of data breaches in 2024 (IBM Cost of a Data Breach Report). Aim for high value that aligns with your strategic objectives.
4. Scalability: As your business grows, your technology needs will evolve. Look for solutions that can scale up during growth or down during slower periods, offering flexibility and the right functionality.
5. Adoptability: Introduce new technology cautiously. Consult leadership, survey employees and ask for vendor references. When adopting new tools, ensure effective communication and thorough training to maximize usage.

How We Can Help 

Managing your tech stack can be complex, but hiring a dedicated team offers a fresh perspective and expertise without overburdening your internal IT staff. Most SMBs lack the specialized cybersecurity knowledge and bandwidth to stay protected against the latest threats. At Doeren Mayhew, our cybersecurity and IT advisory services will assess your digital ecosystem, making sure it is skillfully designed, performs as promised and meets industry compliance standards. Contact us below to learn more about the steps to take to protect your tech stack.