Successful software adoption by glazing companies can improve staff and business performance, making the organization more efficient and profitable.
Computer software can be a powerful tool, but only if your teams put it to use. Successful introduction, training and support of new applications are required to achieve maximum value from investments in software. Whether the impetus to incorporate new apps into the business is meant to address profitability, efficiency issues, the shortage of skilled labor or strategic expansion, buy-in from staff is the lynchpin to success.
Some systems, like expense management or time management software, may be used across the entire team. Other systems may be utilized by individual groups, such as estimating or accounting software. No matter the number of users, software is only useful and valuable if team members put it to use.
Introducing new software
You only have one chance to make a first impression, and that’s also true with launching new software. Whether teams are tech-savvy or loathe the thought of making a new application part of their work process, a proper introduction sets the stage for successful, long-term adoption.
Make it personal. Introduce the new software by focusing on benefits for the user, not the company. Start by outlining the specific benefits staff can expect to receive—saving time, gaining efficiency, streamlining laborious processes, eliminating paperwork, etc. Employees are much more enthusiastic about using new software when they understand how it will help them do their jobs better.
Companies that identify internal champions increase the likelihood that new software will be accepted and used. Consider starting with a focus group of employees to be trained on the latest software. They can advocate and support team members throughout the learning process. Starting small and then expanding to the entire staff is a proven method for successfully introducing new applications.
Training
Properly introducing new software is essential, but it is not a substitute for training. Only a well-thought-out training program will maximize the investment in new software, helping staff recognize its utility and empowering them to make it an integral part of their daily work lives.
When developing a training program, consult with the software maker. They will likely have training resources and perhaps even entire programs they can manage and implement for you. And they are certain to have support materials—cheat sheets, instructive videos, webinars—that will supplement the training process.
Most glazing companies discover they have two types of software users on their staff: tech embracers and tech abstainers/newbies. Effective training recognizes the differences in learning styles between these two audiences and will address the specific needs of both groups.
For tech embracers, training should focus on maximizing the utility of a software package. This group tends to be tech-savvy, thirsting for feature-level tips and tricks to deliver small but essential advantages. They can handle the details, and the company will benefit from their advanced abilities.
For tech abstainers/newbies, a different type of training program is required to convert resistant or inexperienced staff into capable users. Focus on the basics, building a foundation with these individuals to use the core components of the software. Don’t overload them with the minutiae, but help them understand the primary software features and functions supporting them in specific work duties.
Ongoing support
Fully leveraging the power of individual software programs takes time. It’s an investment for both the company and the individual. Start by recognizing that training never stops. New hires must be brought up to speed on company systems. Current employees also benefit from periodic training to keep their skills sharp and add new technical abilities to their repertoire. Several online training resources are available, such as myglassclass.com for glaziers.
Establish systems to address ongoing questions and concerns through internal company champions or the software maker. Provide avenues for continuing feedback. Your frontline staff may have insights into technical aspects of the software or new processes to better leverage the system’s power. Tap into that knowledge by encouraging their input.
Key takeaways
Successful software adoption by glazing companies can improve staff and business performance, making the organization more efficient and profitable. Identifying a new software system that can deliver value is only the start. Developing a comprehensive plan for introducing the application, training the staff, and supporting their needs over the long term is the roadmap for making investments in new software pay off.
