Technology streamlines business processes, increases productivity and efficiency, and improves communication. These are just some of the reasons why more and more businesses are implementing new technologies. However, companies like yours will always encounter issues when dealing with new tech. Let's explore these common problems and how you can deal with them.
1. Failing to identify your business’s needs
When adopting new technology, it's important to consider your company's needs. It can be tempting to try out every new thing on the market, but you may end up with a product or service that your business might not need. Instead, you should conduct comprehensive research on possible IT solutions and make a compelling case for how it will improve your business.
To do this, you must work with your IT team or consultant to identify what tech your business is currently using, what areas need improvement, and which new technologies could help fill those gaps. Or you can partner with managed IT services providers (MSPs) like Complete Document Solutions that can assess your current environment and recommend solutions that best fit your needs.
It can be tempting to try out every new thing on the market, but you may end up with a product or service that your business might not need.
2. Resistance to change
Even if you have a clear strategy for implementing new hardware and software in your company, some employees may be reluctant to embrace change.
To manage employee resistance, you need to focus on the potential benefits that the new technology offers. Make sure to communicate these benefits clearly and regularly, in both one-on-one and group settings. For instance, if you deployed Microsoft Teams, you can show that it helps employees stay better organized and connected with their colleagues.
3. Inadequate staff training
Oftentimes, business owners will purchase new software or equipment but fail to provide adequate instruction on how to use it. As a result, employees may feel frustrated with the new technology and go back to using the outdated systems they're more comfortable with.
To avoid this, you must train employees with the new technology before fully rolling it out. Training can include formal classes, online tutorials, or one-on-one instruction from more experienced users. Finally, give employees time to get used to the new technology before requiring them to use it for everyday tasks.
4. Not having a backup plan
There's always a chance that something can go wrong when adopting new technology. That's why it's important to have a contingency plan in place.
Let's say you implemented a new customer relationship management solution and encountered technical issues that prevented your employees from using the system. To avoid interrupting your operations, users can use a simple spreadsheet while your IT team resolves the issue. Alternatively, an MSP like Complete Document Solutions can troubleshoot and resolve any technical problems quickly so your employees can get back to being productive.
5. Failing to take security into account
When implementing any new technology, it's important to consider the associated security implications. If you're not careful, you may end up putting your business at risk of data breaches or other cyberthreats.
To protect your business from cyberattacks, you need to implement robust security measures. These include using multifactor authentication and deploying cybersecurity solutions like antivirus software, intrusion detection systems, and firewalls. Additionally, partnering with an MSP like Complete Document Solutions can protect your business from cyberthreats. We will monitor your IT infrastructure 24/7/365 and deal with threats before they can cause downtime.
6. Failing to monitor results
Failing to track the results of your new technology adoption makes it difficult to determine if your investments are actually beneficial to your business.
The best way to avoid this is to devise a system for monitoring the performance of your new technology. This can include regularly tracking key performance metrics like employee productivity, customer satisfaction, or operational efficiency. These metrics will help you determine if the new technology is actually helping your business or if it needs to be replaced.
If you’re hesitant about embracing new technology, allow Complete Document Solutions to help you. We will analyze your business’s needs and suggest the best solutions that will not just improve your productivity and efficiency, but also increase your profitability. Request a FREE network and IT assessment today to get started.
Leave a comment!