By now we’re all well aware of the benefits of implementing new technology into our processes, whether we are handling large or small volumes. It drives innovation, increases efficiency and in theory, should make our jobs easier. In the age of automation, advanced technology even replaces increasingly complex tasks normally carried out by humans, meaning we’ll be relying on technology more and more in the future.
However, it is humans that continue to utilize, control and exploit technology to the advantage of your enterprise, and it’s important to understand the interaction between the two.
Implementing New Tech
As with any new tool, the use of a new technology and software require an adaptation and learning phase; a period in which it can be implemented, completely embraced by staff and finally used to its full potential.
The manner in which new technology is integrated can mean the difference between success and failure. Far too often, the benefits of new software or tools aren’t communicated correctly to staff; they’re given logins and links to virtual tours and training modules but no concrete information on how they can, as a team, boost their efforts by utilizing it.
Getting it right
New technology requires a number of considerations, including:
- Choosing carefully. It’s important to have realistic expectations of what the tool can do, and to choose one whose functionality and cost work with your budget, while still maintaining a high level of compatibility.
- Effective support systems.Evaluate what form of training will be most effective for your staff and how they’ll best respond to the new technology. What type of support will be necessary for full implementation? Often it’s better to move away from lengthy manuals and opt for a more modern approach.
- Take it slow. You’re spending money on the new tech and you want it to have positive ROI from the very start, but keep in mind that these things take time. Don’t let the urge to rush result in being rushed, and therefore inferior, implementation.
- Transparency and clear roles. Be transparent with your staff into what fueled the decision to adopt the technology, what is expected from it and what they are expected to do with it. Employees who are aware of the full panorama are more likely to help implement the technology effectively.
Business Process Outsourcing can Help
BPO is a great method for businesses looking to effectively adapt new technology and automation; it’s a way to allow a trusted partner to take on certain activities with tested and automated processes, while you are able to focus on automating the other core activities of your operations.
With expertise in the area of technological integration, and years of experience with various companies integrating different types of software and technology, it can be the perfect solution for companies who need a helping hand, or who would be relieved to take a big part of the implementation process off their plates.
Technology as a Means of Empowerment
With technology in mind, and solid implementation plans in place, it’s important to consider its role within the organization. Though new tools hold the promise of cost savings, increased efficiency and more, they’re not an end-all solution and must still be managed by human talent. Some employees may even be worried about being replaced!
When strategically incorporated, technology can and should be viewed as a way to empower your team. It can streamline and supercharge your efforts, helping you achieve more volume and higher-quality work. We always recommend keeping in mind that the human touch will always be necessary, no matter how advanced the technology may be.
Your Business is as Good as its People
People are the lifeblood of any organization, giving it its persona and adding a face to a name. Staff create a lasting impression on clients, suppliers and all contacts; they think analytically, detect errors and use rationale to make important decisions. So in the end, no matter the level of technology you implement, or how you go about it, it’s the human touch that makes all the difference.
Though we may be in a technological age where it seems that simply buying the most expensive software is the answer, people continue to pave the way to innovation and further success, and it is this mindset that will drive organizations forward.