By Aimee Swope

It seems every day we hear about new technology that can improve the healthcare industry, but when it comes to implementing these technological advancements, many organizations tend to be considered stragglers. Most of the time, the hesitancy in implementing new technology can seemingly stem from the daunting tasks of installation, setup and staff training. Here are five tips for training your workforce to help take them from technology stragglers to leaders.

#1: Prioritize the adoption of the technology
Sure, an effective installment of your new software is crucial to its success. However, it is also necessary to prioritize the actual adoption of the technology. Oftentimes, the next steps in adopting software are de-prioritized and may be postponed for months due to busy schedules and a lack of emphasis placed on adopting the technology into everyday processes. As a result, the project falls by the wayside and sits unused and forgotten about. Before you know it, the excitement of the initial rollout has died down and implementation becomes far more difficult than it ever should be.

Companies that are driven to implement their technology immediately after rollout tend to be more successful at adoption and helping their employees adjust. Those who are genuinely excited about the adoption are more motivated and, as a result, will receive more benefits from the system.

#2: Ensure team leaders are involved in training
When introducing new technology, your teams may be hesitant about the upcoming transition because of a lack of understanding. In this situation, it can be beneficial to enlist the help of qualified team leaders who have the knowledge and ability to provide support during the initial rollout. These individuals should be those who are readily available to answer any questions that may help support the business flow as it relates to the technology. Offer in-depth training to these leaders prior to rolling out to the full workforce to ensure they can adequately speak to the changes.

These leaders do not necessarily have to be managers, so consider strong team members, or “rockstars,” who normally perform well and stand out amongst the rest. These individuals are your new technology advocates and can help ease the mind of hesitant colleagues, as well as generate excitement amongst the teams.

#3: Have a clear project timeline
We get it, especially when embarking on something new such as a companywide rollout of a new software system, it can be intimidating. There can be bumps and hiccups along the way that make it cumbersome and downright frustrating. To avoid unnecessary stress, have a clear project timeline prior to beginning. This will ensure everyone is on the same page and expectations on next steps are laid out.

For some projects, a soft rollout is a good option to get all of the kinks worked out, understand potential training issues with employees and ensure implementation runs smoothly on the larger scale. Additionally, a successful rollout can actually build excitement and anticipation for the implementation. For example, if the software is installed at one facility and the team is seeing immediate benefits after implementation, it can help build momentum for the additional rollouts.

#4: Educate on benefits prior to implementation
As we’ve mentioned, most resistance is due to a lack of understanding on the advantages of the new technology or the workforce being unaware of the reasoning behind the technological transition. So why wait for after implementation to inform employees about the benefits of the process?

By letting your workforce know the benefits upfront, they may be more excited to participate early on in the process. This will allow you to avoid any hesitation or resistance that may arise and start implementation off on the right foot. If the team can understand how the software will positively impact them personally, they will be more open and willing to learn. The sooner the employees see the benefit for them in new technology, the more seamless implementation will be, so don’t wait to let your team know just how great your new technology will be for everyone involved.

#5: Find an implementation team that you can trust
Perhaps one of the most critical choices a company can make when adopting new software is selecting a vendor or implementation partner they can trust. The partner’s job is to provide a smooth transition and help relieve any stress that comes with the installation, training and adoption. The sign of a good partner is one who is willing to do everything in their power to go above and beyond ensuring implementation runs flawlessly. Select someone who you are confident will go the extra mile to make the process as easy and quick as possible.

Starting the process to adopt a new piece of software or technology component can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Ensuring you’re equipped with the right tools and a clear plan for adoption can help put both you and your team in the right mindset for a successful implementation. Generating excitement amongst employees and properly educating them will not only allow for a smooth transition, but will help your company transform into a technology leader.

About the author: Aimee Swope is the customer success manager at Apacheta Corporation. In this role, she assists HME/DME companies with understanding the changes in the industry and implementing mobile logistic solutions into their workflow management. Aimee has a background in working for HME/DME providers, which gives her a unique perspective when building relationships with Apacheta’s customers. For more information, please visit www.apacheta.com.