The prospect of implementing new software tools can often feel like stepping into a haunted house. Taking that first step brings back the eerie tales of past experiences, crippling uncertainties, and the perpetual fear of the unknown. And it’s no wonder why you might feel this way with 55% to 75% of all ERP projects failing to meet their objectives, according to Gartner.
However, these uncertainties can hinder business processes from improving. When you select the right software partner and when the tools are implemented correctly, they can offer significant benefits. In a recent report from G2 Learning, ERP tools can reduce administrative costs by 22%.
Just like a well-crafted horror movie, these fears can be unmasked and overcome with the right approach and a dose of courage.
How to Escape the Horror of Implementing New Software
Shining a Light on the Unknown
The best way to overcome the fear of the unknown – shed light on the situation. How do you do this? Simple! Conduct thorough research and due diligence before investing in any software. Leverage demos, trials, and consultations to understand how the software tools align with your organization’s needs and goals. Engage with the provider to clarify any doubts and get a clear roadmap of what lies ahead.
Exorcising the Fear of Implementation Failure
The memories of failed implementations can be a deterrent to finding the right tools for you. To exorcise these fears, you must be meticulous in the planning and collaboration process for implementing new software. Engage in comprehensive pre-implementation discussions with the software providers to understand the requirements, responsibilities, and potential challenges. Develop a solid implementation roadmap that involves all stakeholders, establishes a realistic timeline with key milestones, and sets expectations for each role.
Learn from your past implementation horrors, taking those experiences as cautionary tales rather than prophetic outcomes.
Taming the Poltergeist of Disruption
Proactive planning and clear communications are the proper remedy for taming the fear of disruptions during implementation. We recommend developing a well-structured implementation strategy that accounts for potential downtimes and interruptions. To avoid these potential complications, it is best to schedule the implementation during off-peak hours or slower business periods to minimize impact. Also, engage and educate employees, ensuring they understand the benefits of the new software and are prepared for any temporary changes in their routines.
Implementing new software tools doesn’t need to be a horror show. By unmasking the fears and facing them head-on, you can reveal the truth – that software implementation is a manageable and transformative process.
Much like the hero in a horror movie, with careful planning, communication, and a little bravery, you can emerge victorious, vanquishing the fears that once haunted you. Remember, behind the mask of fear lies the potential for growth, efficiency, and success.
For more articles like this, check out the Bentek Blog!
