The implementation of new automation is meant to improve productivity, profitability and efficiency of a business or organization. The decision is made with the best intentions but as the system is undergoing implementation, it's critical that all involved parties be totally onboard and committed to its success. It's common to have a certain level of anxiety when undertaking a new project. With the correct methodology in place, risks are minimized and rate of success increases with sound implementation practices. This article discusses the top 3 obstacles/risks you may possibly experience when implementing a scheduling software solution and how to overcome those obstacles to ensure project success.
Struggle With Change
It can be difficult to implement change into the workforce. You have grown accustomed to your methods and strategies and may feel intimidated and overwhelmed about introducing a new way of doing business into your work environment. To alleviate typical anxieties associated with workplace change, ask yourself several key questions that can assist to drive your decision making process in the right direction:
- What is the biggest headache that I am dealing with on a day to day basis that I want solved by workforce automation?
- What are additional problems that we hope to solve with this type of a solution?
- Are there any current critical business systems that we must integrate with the new solution?
- How much time in terms of resources and manpower hours can we commit to an implementation?
- What would this product need to do to make it worth the investment?
The answers to these questions will be a starting point in your quest for an automated scheduling solution that speaks directly to your pain points. With an in-depth understanding of your specific needs, you will be guiding the discussions with your scheduling software provider in the right direction ensuring that the right solutions are provided to solve your unique scheduling issues.
Dedication of Time for Implementation Success
Allocating the proper amount of time and resources is critical to project success when implementing a new software system. An obstacle you may face is setting aside dedicated time needed for automation success, however it is imperative that proper planning be a priority in order to ensure a successful system that will reap benefits in terms of increased productivity and efficiency. Work diligently with your system provider and set aside the proper amount of time for instruction and training. Many software providers utilize the “train the trainer” approach to software implementation allowing the Project Managers to become the system “experts” who in turn train their respective employees. It is important to discuss your training goals with your software provider prior to implementation to ensure that training is successful.
Budgeting Issues
The true benefits of a successful automation adoption are shown in the ROI (return on investment). To calculate a product’s ROI, you’ll need to monetize the benefits and then subtract the costs. A payback of three years or less is typically considered a worthwhile investment. Look at the cost savings benefits such as reduction in overtime costs and improvements in customer service as just some of the many benefits you’ll discover when allocating a budget for this expenditure.
For additional tips on ensuring a successful implementation for your business needs, download our guide below.
