Despite exploding popularity, there is only so much room for technology providers in the health it and collaboration markets, according to Dan Klanderman, Senior Solutions Architect for Iron Bow Technologies. He predicts continued consolidation through acquisitions and even market exits in 2016.

To avoid being stuck with an obsolete technology, Klanderman suggests investing in collaboration technology from a long-term perspective. “Interoperability is key,” he said, and advises avoiding working with technology providers that create siloes or offer technology that doesn’t work well with other technology.

“Some providers actually design technology as a walled garden,” he shared. “I recommend avoiding that and finding technology that is interoperable with what you already have with a manufacturer that is committed to interoperability.”

Klanderman says that because hospitals, researchers and others in the industry must be able to reach out seamlessly to patients and each other, interoperability is key to growing with the market. He also pointed out that, like in the tech world, acquisitions and mergers are common in the healthcare industry. “You are just one acquisition away from becoming a multi-vendor environment,” he explained.

As a result, his motto for 2016 is to invest in a collaboration solution that can flex and grow with you.

Hear the entire podcast with Klanderman here.