Implementing any new software or technology comes with challenges. For the construction and utility industry, going from paper processes and workflows to digital ones is a huge shift. These transitions require training and buy-in from everyone. Not only that, but they also represent a culture shift within the company.
There are project management tools and project management software built directly for industrial spaces. In order to realize the full potential of these systems, everyone within the company needs to buy-in. This includes people at the top, trade contractors, and field team members. In order to successfully implement these changes, you must get buy-in from the field for project management software.
Moving projects to the digital space presents a whole new world of possibilities. Managing projects through digital project management systems removes the need for manual processes. It allows every project stakeholder to have important information in real time. It streamlines processes, simplifies workflows, and will drive project success in the long term.
Let digital project management work for you and get buy-in early. Continue reading to hear our tips and tricks to ease everyone into using digital project management tools.
- Communicate the Benefits
One of the biggest ways to get buy-in is through communication. Let your field crews know what’s in it for them. Let them know how these changes will benefit them.
These platforms put all the information they need at their fingertips. They can reduce reworks, improve safety, and reduce stress on the field crews. Everyone using the software should know how these processes are meant to help them.
Digital project management software is there to improve access to information and drive communication. Everyone will have access to the latest, most up-to-date information. In fact, many of these softwares are mobile and can be accessed from mobile devices like smartphones and tablets.
Letting your crews know why these changes are happening and how they will affect them will make the transition easier on everyone. This is especially true if you communicate to them why it matters and how it will help them.
- Ease the Transition
Chances are, everyone on your crew has a smartphone they use every day. Another way to ensure a smooth transition to new technology and software is by using something familiar to them.
In this case, what we mean by this is pairing a matching tablet with the phone your crews are already using. For example, giving everyone an iPad will complicate the learning process for Android users. Pairing them with a device they already know how to use will reduce entry barriers and the need for intensive training.
- Strategically Digitize
Another way to make sure your crews are using the software is to digitize important workflows first. Be strategic in what you choose to digitize first. Choose tasks that are simple and essential and digitize them first.
An example of this is requiring crews to submit their timesheets through the software. Everyone wants to get paid, so doing so will incentivize them to learn to use the new program.
By strategically digitizing workflows, you make the transition on everyone easier. It creates a normal routine for the field crews. This, in turn, makes it easier for them to adapt to more complex workflows and procedures through the new software.
In Summary
Adopting new technology in the field doesn’t have to be a scary thing. Make sure you get buy-in early and find ways to ease the transition to digital workflows.
Adapting to these tools are a variety of benefits to your business. They can be used to improve safety, drive productivity, and ensure quality.
