Software Rollout 101: How to change team behavior without draining morale

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Rolling out new software can be daunting but the benefits to be had are numerous. When it comes time to roll out new software it’s essential you have a plan in place. With the right strategy, your new software will benefit your company without draining morale. Here’s a primer on successfully deploying new software.

Understand Your Position

There’s an old saying: You can’t plan where you’re going if you don’t know where you are. When planning new software rollouts you have to have a clear idea of where your business stands at the moment.

For example, perhaps you’re a small business moving into the mid-sized market. Implementing business software to aid your bookkeeping and accounting processes is ideal because you’ll be better able to understand your cash flow and expenses. Without first knowing where your business stands, you won’t be able to properly plan for where it’s heading.

Establish an Objective

You’ve done the research. You understand why certain software is a benefit to your organization, but that doesn’t mean your employees are on the same page.

Let’s take our example: you’re rolling out new bookkeeping software. You should loop your employees in early to the benefits of switching from old processes. Perhaps your new software provides critical functions the old one didn’t. Make your employees aware of these in the planning stages and you’ll be better positioned to roll out your new software smoothly.

If your employees work on an intranet network, keep them up-to-date on your rollout by creating an eye-catching banner for your site. Simply use an online banner template that you can customize with your own copy, font, colors, and more. 

Make New Processes Clear

New software is just that: new. It will take some time to get your employees up to speed with it. When it comes time to train your workers on the new processes involved in your software, ensure they’re accessible and clear. For example, when rolling out new bookkeeping and accounting software, you might draft written processes and keep them in a central location for employees to access. TPC Training notes that for some employees, additional training may need to be done down the road.

Understand User Needs

No two departments will use the same piece of software the same way. In order to ensure your software rollout runs smoothly, you have to understand how each employee will use it.

For instance, your accounting team will use new bookkeeping software very differently to your design department. You must plan for these different uses and ensure your new software is benefiting everyone from the top level down.

Make Training a Priority

Software training can seem superfluous but in reality, it’s the only way for an organization to get the most out of its new processes. When rolling out new software to your business, you have to make training a priority. When choosing new software, ensure its rollout includes training processes.

Roll Out New Software Smoothly

Change is hard, and so rolling out new software within your business can be a complicated process. However, just because it’s daunting doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Rolling out new software smoothly and effectively is within reach!

By: Courtney Rosenfeld

For innovative content creation and digital marketing that can boost your bottom line, work with Nicole Nixon and Carly Bromley today! (239) 370-2929

4 Strategies To Make Your Business More Efficient

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Whether you currently own a small business or intend to open one soon, there are policies and recommendations that can benefit nearly all woman-owned companies. Whether you are managing a clothing boutique or dentist's office, Nicole Nixon brings you these four practices that can help your business run smoothly and efficiently.

1. Streamline Processes

Most businesses have multiple internal processes that run on a daily basis, such as scheduling and collecting payments. The more cohesively these systems work together, the smoother your operations run. If you are struggling to identify beneficial changes, consider working with a business coach to help you revamp your processes.

You may also consider going back to school to earn an advanced degree in business to hone your business and management skills. Going for an MBA, for example, will beef up your skill set with an expert level of understanding of organizational concepts, entrepreneurship, leadership and other critical areas that go into running your business. If you think you don’t have the time to invest in taking classes, think again: Getting an online MBA affords you the convenience of taking coursework at your own pace and at your own place, allowing you to continue working.

2. Find Mentors

While you may have had a few jobs before owning a business, there are many differences between working for a company and running one. Even if you are well-versed in certain practices, there are other areas you are not as knowledgeable in. This is where mentors step in.

Befriend a few entrepreneurs who have successfully started businesses from the ground up. They can provide insight on business methods and will be fantastic resources when you have questions or need recommendations. If you need help meeting these types of people, join your local chamber of commerce. Membership gives you insight and access to events and marketing opportunities while also providing a unique way to meet and network with other local business owners.

3. Establish a Work-Life Balance

Owning a business usually requires long hours, especially if you are still getting your company off the ground. However, you need to set a limit on your working hours to allow time for the other aspects of your life, such as family, friends and hobbies.

Make sure your schedule has a work-life balance so you can spend time being a partner, mother or friend. If all your time is dedicated to work, chances are you will burn out and your relationships outside of work will suffer.

4. Set Up Remote Work

If it’s manageable, allowing staff to work remotely is a great option for employees and the business. Team members save time by skipping the commute and working from home. Plus, they have more flexibility to travel if they can bring work with them. It also shows you trust them to do their jobs with very limited supervision. All of this helps build company loyalty and morale among your staff.

Afraid output will suffer? One report determined that 77 percent of employees felt they were actually more productive when they worked remotely. Not only do employees get more flexibility, but allowing remote work from home can also help you save money on overhead costs like utilities and equipment in an office.

If your current business processes need an overhaul, these four recommendations are a great place to start. Incorporate these strategies into your work to help your company grow and flourish.

Nicole Nixon is your source for content marketing and luxury brand development. Look no further for an experienced, local and innovative content creation and digital marketing team. Together, Nicole and Carly will identify areas of opportunity and ensure success in revolutionizing your digital marketing strategy in creative ways. Contact us today!

By: Courtney Rosenfeld