5 practical tips that can help in this process
Introducing technology into non-technology industries is a topic that is as important today as ever. Nonetheless, any change usually raises concerns among employees. What challenges do managers face when introducing digital tools to companies? How can staff be convinced to use modern solutions? Here are some practical tips that can help in this process.
Successive amendments to the construction law introduce more and more digital solutions. This means that their use will become mandatory. Meanwhile, in the case of the construction industry, you may encounter the belief that implementing innovative tools is a complicated and lengthy process that requires a complete redesign of the way of working or even a temporary halt to operations. Nothing could be further from the truth! The truth is that digital tools can adapt to existing processes, not the other way around. The whole world is moving toward digitization, and companies that don't keep up with the changes will be left behind.
How to convince senior staff to use digital tools?
One of the biggest challenges facing managers making changes in a company is convincing senior staff to use digital tools. Such people, employees with many years of experience, usually have their own tried-and-true ways of working and may be skeptical about introducing new solutions. That's why it's worth taking care of the right form of communication.
The use of digital solutions should not be associated with compulsion. It is worth showing how new technologies can effectively improve work efficiency, and thus help to complete tasks, better communicate or contribute to time savings. An example of such a tool is BinderLess - a platform designed for the construction industry, which enables the circulation of material cards between the developer and external companies, improving decision-making and ensuring that all authorized people have access to the most up-to-date files. BinderLess was developed in cooperation with representatives of the construction industry - managers, inspectors and contractors, making the platform intuitive for users to use. We conduct extensive consultations, in which senior employees can also participate.
Is better the enemy of good? How to overcome resistance to change
Resistance to change is a natural reaction of people to emerging challenges and situations that are unfamiliar to them. Managers should therefore implement changes in stages, implementing them gradually and step by step, allowing employees to adjust to the new situation.
1. Education, training and indication of real effects
The first step should be to provide staff with adequate training and education in the use of new technologies. Workshops, online training or individual sessions, will help employees understand the potential and benefits of digital tools, taming and disenchanting the unfamiliar. It is worth explaining to them what specific problems the implemented solutions can solve and how they will facilitate their daily work. Examples of successes that other employees have achieved through the use of digital tools is to present concrete evidence of how technology has contributed to increased efficiency, time savings or improved business performance. Such "hard data" can help convince the most skeptical employees.
2. Personalization and customization
Understanding the individual needs and concerns of employees is crucial when implementing change in an organization. Implementing new technologies in a company can create uncertainty. Therefore, it is worth approaching each situation individually and prioritizing those people who find it most difficult to work with new tools. By taking special care of the "weakest links", the company will thus ensure a smooth implementation and increase acceptance of new technologies among the entire staff.
3. Adjusting the rate of change
Consider introducing new technologies gradually to give staff time to adapt to the changes. Introducing innovations too rapidly can cause resistance and frustration. Gradual introduction of digital tools and adaptation periods will help the entire process go more smoothly.
4. Engagement and dialogue
Creating an atmosphere in which employees can express their concerns and doubts is one of the critical elements of effective implementation of digital tools in a company. Managers should listen to their opinions and take their perspective into account. Involving staff in the process of introducing technology will make them feel a shared responsibility for success as a crew.
5. Mentors and support
In every company there are less and more technologically advanced employees. It is worthwhile among the latter group to select people who could act as mentors. The support of teammates can greatly facilitate the acquisition of new skills and eliminate the feeling of isolation.
New technologies = new opportunities
Introducing technology into non-technology industries presents many challenges, but also brings many benefits to companies that are able to take advantage of new solutions. Above all, managers need to remember that introducing changes to a company is a process that requires adequate time to implement. Proper internal communication and employee training are also important. Ultimately, the key to success is to convince employees that the changes introduced are beneficial to them and bring tangible benefits. Only then will the innovations be effective and produce the desired results.
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