Shiny new tech can be exciting! It promises increased efficiency, happier employees, and a competitive edge. It’s also necessary to stay relevant in today’s technology-driven business world. However, this promise can quickly turn into a financial nightmare if you neglect two critical aspects: employee training and change management. Without these, you risk losing money because employees can’t use tech effectively.
When employees struggle with their business tools, productivity drops, mistakes happen, and customer service suffers. Read on to discover common staff technology issues and practical solutions to ensure your investment in new tech pays off.
Lack of Technology Training
Imagine investing in a top-of-the-line CRM system, expecting it to streamline your sales processes. Instead, you see your sales team floundering, unable to find key features, struggling with data entry, and missing deadlines. Why? Because they haven’t been properly trained on the new software. This scenario is common and can lead to several costly outcomes.
Lost Productivity
Employees fumbling with unfamiliar tech lose valuable work time. Imagine the lost sales opportunities if your team can’t process orders or generate reports due to inadequate training on the new CRM. Time spent struggling with the software is time not spent on productive tasks, leading to significant losses.
Costly Errors
Confusion and frustration lead to mistakes. Inaccurate data entered into the new system requires time and money to fix. This not only impacts your budget but also potentially damages client relationships. Mistakes in data handling can result in misinformed business decisions and lost revenue.
Demotivation and Resistance
Struggling with a new system is demoralising. Untrained employees might resist using it altogether, clinging to outdated but familiar methods. This resistance hinders adoption and negates the benefits of the new tech. Employees who feel frustrated and unsupported are less likely to embrace new tools and processes.
Failing to Manage the Change
Introducing new technology disrupts workflows. Without proper change management, employees feel overwhelmed and insecure. Change management focuses on the human side of change, helping employees understand why things are changing and providing training, support, and engagement to help them transition successfully. Organisations with good change management are seven times more likely to meet objectives than those with poor change management.
Low Morale
Change can be stressful. Employees can feel lost and undervalued, especially due to a lack of clear communication and support during the transition. This can lead to low morale and a negative work environment. Without proper guidance, employees may feel alienated and less motivated to adapt to new systems.
Shadow IT
When employees feel the new system isn’t meeting their needs, they might resort to using unauthorised tools – what we call ‘shadow IT’. This creates security risks and undermines the investment in the new technology. Shadow IT can lead to data breaches and compliance issues, putting your business at risk.
Resistance to Future Improvements
A negative experience with a tech rollout can make employees wary of future changes. This can hinder innovation and make it difficult for the company to adapt to evolving market trends. Employees who experience “change fatigue” are less productive and more resistant to new initiatives, making it harder to implement future improvements.
Building a Bridge to Success
Unlocking the true value of new technology lies in effective training and change management. Here’s how to avoid negative costs and reap the full benefits from your tech investments.
Invest in Comprehensive Training
Don’t treat training as an afterthought. Some tools claim to be easy to use, but people have different tech literacy levels. There’s no replacement for targeted training on a business application. Develop a tailored training program that goes beyond basic features, including video tutorials, hands-on workshops, and ongoing support resources. This approach ensures everyone feels comfortable using the new tools.
Focus on User Adoption, Not Just Features
Training shouldn’t just explain how the software works. It should emphasise how the new system will benefit employees in their daily tasks and improve workflow efficiency. If employees don’t adopt the tech well, you won’t see its full benefits. Highlight practical applications and real-world examples to make the training more relevant.
Embrace Change Management
Communicate the “why” behind the change. Explain how the new technology will make everyone’s jobs easier and ultimately benefit the company as a whole. Encourage open communication and address concerns throughout the transition. Providing a clear vision and continuous support helps employees feel more secure and engaged.
The Takeaway
New technology is a powerful tool, but it’s only as valuable as its users. Prioritise employee training and change management to bridge the gap between a shiny new system and a real return on investment. Happy, well-trained employees using the right tools are your secret weapon for maximising efficiency, boosting morale, and staying ahead of the curve. Don’t let a lack of training turn your tech upgrade into a financial drain.
Need Help With Technology Training?
Efficiency and productivity improvements are the goals of most technology transformations. We can help you meet your tech goals with tailored staff training and support, helping your team excel with both new tech and existing tools. Ready to discuss a tailored tech training plan for your staff? Contact us today to learn more.
