Some Things Never Change

Three things that are essential to the successful adoption of anything new in a company setting

I’ve had several conversations lately about software adoption and how some companies have an easier time adding software to their arsenal of software weapons than others.  For me, it boils down to the same things that govern most change at companies for anything.

* Endorsement and use by the people on top.  Employees can tell very quickly is something is being hyped as the fad of the moment or if the desired change really and truly reflects the values inside the company.  There is nothing wrong with experimenting with software to see if it will brings positive change to the company, but it should be clearly stated and treated as an experiment.  As soon as the decision is made that this new application is expected to be adopted, (whole company, entire divisions etc), then that decision needs to be reinforced by the senior management team.  And they really, really need to agree that it’s important and they will support it.  (Remember when you knew that Mommy and Daddy didn’t agree on something concerning you?  How quick were you to exploit that split?)  And it can’t be lip service.  We pick up on that too.  So it has to be real.

* Designate a champion.  Too ensure success designate a champion or a team of champions to promote and help others to adopt the software.  Reward the early adopters and help them get the word out.

* Find and communicate real stories about how the software increased productivity, or increased the bottom line, or increased customer satisfaction.  Publicly recognize the people involved and that will allow those people to get invested in making sure the software  succeeds.

This is not real complicated stuff.  It’s about providing leadership and helping to create an environment where people can succeed.  If you are at the top of the company, isn’t this really what your job description is all about?