Choosing to adopt a new software platform is no small task. The acquisition and installation of new software involve relatively straightforward discussions around technological requirements, operational needs, and functional limitations. However, the actual implementation process involves a whole different component – the human element.
A well-designed software implementation strategy is always mindful of the people behind the screens because they’re the ones who ultimately make the process a success. Here are seven tips to encourage buy-in of the onboarding process:
Tips for a Successful Software Implementation Strategy
Identify business needs
It’s easy to be enticed by the prospect of something new and better or feel as if you “need ” to upgrade to the latest “must-have” product in your industry.
Doing a needs analysis will help identify areas where improvements are necessary and will help guide you in the right direction where cost, expense, and resources may be a consideration as well. Once a needs analysis has been done, the next step would be product research and identifying who the stakeholders are.
Consult with stakeholders
You probably have an idea of what your company needs, but never make a change without asking the stakeholders what their needs are. Whether the end-user is the customer or company employees, getting input and feedback about your current platform is not only informative but also encourages user buy-in should a change be made.
Make the value clear
If your stakeholders don’t understand why you’re implementing a software change, it’s going to be difficult to bring them on board. Before you start talking about the specifics of the implementation plan, clearly articulate how this new system will enhance the user experience so they fully understand the value.
Develop consistent messaging
Ahead of rolling out your software implementation strategy, come up with consistent messages on the when, where, why, and how of your plan. Implementation should never be a mystery, and everyone affected by the change should feel informed. Clear and consistent messaging removes the element of surprise, prepares everyone affected by the switch, and helps reduce overall resistance to change.
Make a goal-driven timeline
A timeline is essential for effective implementation, but making clear goals for each phase of the process sets you up for greater success. Rather than simply making a list of tasks to complete during each phase of implementation, set performance goals to identify whether your implementation is on track and to help identify when you’re ready to launch the next phase.
Offer users the tools for success
Your users need to feel successful to appreciate the value of your new platform, so effective training through multiple modalities is essential. Give the end-users the tools to learn and adopt your new software quickly through traditional training, online videos, and in-app real-time guidance.
Make data-driven improvements
No software implementation plan is perfect, and you can expect the need to correct the course at some point during the process. Use metrics to inform your decisions about where additional training is needed, or what parts of your new software aren’t intuitive and need adjusting.
Apty: Your Partner in Simplifying Software Implementation
Apty offers your users real-time guidance while supplying you back-end analytics, making end-user product adoption easy while giving you data to inform your implementation plan and set you up for success.
