New technology has immense potential, but having realistic expectations of desired results is important. Expectations can relate to many different things, including the desired effect of the investment, the implementation process and employee reaction. Here are some common beliefs and myths that organizations have regarding new technologies, which do not correspond 100% to reality.
1: Digital solutions deliver results from day one
Unfortunately, it's rare to be so lucky. Indeed, any digital project involves a learning process for the parties involved.
For example, employees need time to get used to how the new digital solution supports and optimizes existing workflows. Expectations for the solution often change once users have it in their hands. Sometimes it turns out that parts of the solution are more important than first thought. Conversely, some of the previous wishes for the solution may prove to be less relevant in reality. With a little patience, digital solutions can provide tremendous value and create good conditions for growth.
2: Digital solutions are the responsibility of IT departments
Maybe the IT department or the IT manager is leading the project to a start. However, they need to involve the other departments during the process to ensure the solution will actually support the required workflows.
IT managers must understand how the solution will be used. Will it be used offline? Will there be access to a stable internet connection?
A successful project and solution involves employees from multiple departments. Moreover, when employees feel part of journey, they become more engaged in making the best of the solution.
3: The more digital solutions the better
Digital solutions have many advantages, but having too many digital solutions can cause a separate series of problems. Too many niche solutions may contribute more to chaos than value. It is important to move away from silo thinking and data islands and look to better knowledge sharing and collaboration.
When it comes to digital solutions, it is important to have an overall plan for what the company wants to achieve, the necessary solutions to meet the goal, and how the solutions will work together. It is not just about adding solutions, but just as much about connected solutions that bring together the processes.
4: Determining Return On Investment (ROI) is easy
Most companies try to calculate how much money and time they can save by investing in a new digital solution. However, determining the Total Benefit and Total Cost is far from simple. It includes both tangible and intangible items that is difficult to calculate the value of.
For example, employees may be more satisfied, quality increases and service levels increase. Perhaps there will also be better knowledge sharing or new business areas and collaborations. Intangible benefits are of great value but can't necessarily be seen on the bottom line.
5: Business processes immediately improve
Fortunately, most companies experience business process improvements in the long term when they invest in new technology.
In order to get the maximum benefit, it requires, among other things, continuous employee training and education, as well as an ongoing look at whether the solution matches the current needs and provides space for the company to grow and keep up with trends.
6: Digital solutions take over employees work
It may seem logical to think digital solutions will take over employees work. However, in reality digital solutions help employees focus their attention on other activities that add value to the business.
For example, instead of entering information manually from papers into various systems, it may be, that administrative staff can spend their time providing quality control, remedying errors and providing advice.
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Written by John Macdonald, Group CSO and Regional President North America, ExpandIT
