Introducing any new technology into a business set in its ways will result in resistance. People are naturally inclined to be wary of change, but there are several ways to overcome these behavior roadblocks. Below are ten tips to improve technology adoption at your job sites:
#1 Get Out of the Office and into the Yard
Before you start any implementation, it’s crucial that you understand the struggles faced at your job sites firsthand. Engage with those whose processes will be impacted the most and make these interactions highly visible. Transparency can go a long way in assuring your staff that their perspectives are being actively considered and addressed.
#2 Quantify the Need for Change
While people are naturally resistant to change, the right metrics can help sway their opinions. Time and motion studies can determine such metrics. Identify your biggest time wasters and then outline how your new technology can alleviate them. This can serve to align your job sites with your end goals.
#3 Involve a Diverse Mix of Stakeholders
When implementing any big change, it’s crucial that a diverse mix of stakeholders each get a seat at the table. Make sure every department and division within your organization understands what you’re trying to achieve for the business as a whole and how they’ll contribute towards that end goal.
#4 Showcase a Proof of Concept
For many people, seeing is believing. Because of that, a proof of concept has the power to change new technology doubters into advocates. When planning a proof of concept, work with vocal team members capable of influencing their peer groups and leading new technology adoption.
#5 Inform Your Entire Organization
It’s only natural that some of your users won’t be as close to the implementation process as others. That being established, it’s still important that your whole company is onboard, so spread positives messages far and wide. Roadshows, tool box talks, and mass emails can be used to keep your entire organization informed and up-to-date.
#6 Spotlight the Wow Factor
Driving engagement hinges on delivering a solution that wows your site team. During the proof of concept stage, look out for features that impress early adopters. Even seemingly insignificant functions can improve buy-in.
#7 Assembly a Team of Power Users
Before even testing starts, appoint a team of site-based super users and organize a train the trainer program. These energized individuals will naturally become your go-to people on site and act as a vital link between your implementation teams and job-site personnel.
#8 Run a Pilot Project
Because your field users still have their own jobs to do, don’t expect much end user engagement during your “testing” phase. Instead, frame testing as a “mini pilot” project with a specific end goal in mind. Consider this as the final “user acceptance testing” phase.
#9 Provide Ample Support
All the training in the world can never replace the need for effective user guides. Leverage videos and onscreen help features to deliver a clearer, more engaging product support experience.
#10 Incentivize and Gamify
Incentives and gamification programs can go a long way in driving ongoing user engagement and widespread technology adoption. It’s best to keep things simple to ensure that all participants understand the goals they should be striving for.
