Introduction
When implementing new software in any workplace, an organisation is almost guaranteed to encounter complications. This is not a major issue. What can become an issue is the inability to create resolution for these problems.
Read on to discover what some of the most common mistakes are, and how to avoid them.
1) Lack of training and appropriate onboarding.
Before even beginning the installation process, any sensible organisation should consider and plan out their onboarding process. It is highly likely that no matter how similar the previously used software was, there will still be notable differences. Creating provisions for staff training and onboarding will prepare your team for a smoother and more successful transition.
2) Not having suitable resources to refer to when stuck.
Almost no organisation is able to avoid hitting ‘snags’ when implementing new software, we understand the importance of having access to helpful resources. Support facilities such as FAQs, manuals, and perhaps even video tutorials, can all offer a lifeline during periods of transition. Not having these resources available to you, or not making use of them when available, can seriously diminish progress.
3) Failing to prepare for switching from the old to the new.
Although this seems an obvious point to make, it is vital to take adequate steps when preparing for a switchover. The ever-famous phrase ‘fail to prepare, prepare to fail’ rings painfully true in these instances. Neglecting to take preparatory actions frequently results in time being wasted later on, either during the application process or afterwards.
4) Not testing the software’s efficiency before implementation.
Testing efficiency is another vital element of ensuring that your organisation is ready for action. Although the prospect of effectively organising and committing to conducting testing sessions can seem laborious and sometimes unnecessary; it can ultimately help expose undetected obstacles and save your organisation from future headache.
5) Not reaching out for advice or support when necessary.
A grave but easy mistake often made when an organisation experiences difficulties with software, is not reaching out to other bodies for support. Whether or not the organisation reaches out to the supplier of the software package or not, instead of going in circles, it is often more productive to simply ask externally for help. It is undeniably a better option to contact the original software supplier/developer for advice, as they will have specialised knowledge on the software and will be familiar with common quirks or difficulties experienced by users. Sometimes these services can incur a financial cost, although this is more-often-than-not worth committing to as it will likely save your organisations from suffering greater financial and labour/time-related costs further down the line.
Summary
Ultimately, ensuring that your organisation has a well thought-out and prescriptive procedure in place when implementing new software is a good way to circumnavigate significant complications. Sometimes unavoidable issues will arise no matter the precautions taken. It is in these situations that prescriptive support from knowledgeable professions can rescue an organisation in trouble.
Here at BDI, we have a team of skilled and experienced business intelligence experts available to offer tailored and in-depth advice regarding efficient and seamless software implementation.
Contact us today through any one of our channels, including our Instagram and Twitter, to benefit from the diverse insight BDI can offer your organisation.
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