Keep your competitive edge when implementing new technology

MCS Influencer Jon Olson says that training is key to integrating new technology.

Many pros are looking for technology that will make their planning easier and their company more profitable. While there are many choices out there, it’s important to remember that technology is often only as good as what you feed into it.

First, remember that every project has review and revision cycles. It is common to think of tasks like design as a one-time deliverable, but in reality, most projects will require multiple rounds of feedback and refinement. When building your project plan, account for those review loops from the start to ensure you are setting realistic goals. For example, if you typically develop a solution for a customer and review it with them two to three times, build your plan to show this. Doing so ensures your customers are getting exactly what they are looking for, and you are getting projects done on time. Plan for the process, rather than bypassing the process and derailing your plan.

Another important planning consideration is to remember that weather happens. Building your plans around perfect weather is building a flawed plan. Your tasks that require good weather should be planned with a buffer in mind so that you finish the project ahead of plan if the weather is great, and you can be on-plan if weather does not cooperate. This is not a perfect process but is an important consideration as you build your project plans and timelines.

Training is one of the most critical factors in the successful adoption of any new technology. People naturally gravitate towards the tools they know and feel confident using, so introducing a new platform requires more than a one-time training session. Repetition is required to drive home key habits and consistent usage. The more comfortable people become with the technology, the more they are likely to embrace it as part of their daily workflow. And of course, keep it simple.

As you review opportunities to improve your business using new technology and systems, remember that often the simplest solution is the best solution. Technology should enhance what is already working, not replace it unnecessarily. Remember to build on your successes and incorporate them into new solutions so you do not lose your competitive advantage.