Automation, a game-changer in today's world, often meets resistance. Unravel the complexities behind this reluctance and explore strategies to overcome it. Delve into the human aspect of technology adoption and the path to harmonious coexistence with automation.
How automation heroes can help get the rest of their team on board with new processes
While many businesses are eager to automate as many processes as possible, a portion of SMBs either lack the resources or the will to streamline simple tasks.
- Automation is an invaluable means to an end, there’s a lot more to process optimization than just building out the flow.
Secure buy-in from key influencers
Involving influencers in every stage of development will give them a stake in the outcome and encourage them to champion change in the right ways and in front of the right people
- Listen to what these influencers have to say, they know their teams and workflows better than you will
Don’t Overcomplicate Things
Plan and proceed with caution, and make sure that every step you take is necessary and supports the path you’ve charted with stakeholders.
- Excessive complexity will only lead to more growing pains
- Make sure you are following a path that works for you and your business
Meet Stakeholders Where They Are, Not Where You Want Them to Be
Processes are crafted first and foremost for humans
- Change management should begin immediately when creating a new process
- This requires a deep and extensive understanding of where employees are and how they work
- Assess how employees work and practice the original process
Empathize
Put yourself in the shoes of the people most affected by the changes you’re making.
- Who are you building this automation for? Whose work will be most affected?
- Am I improving things for the team, or changing things for change’s sake?
Communicate constantly, effectively, and annoyingly
Most employees won’t pay much attention to a process until it’s forced upon them
- To get through effectively, you need to over-communicate and simplify your message
- During one-on-ones, departmental all-hands, or routine training meetings, talk about new processes till you become a broken record
- Constant communication signals to employees that upcoming changes are important and provides plenty of chances for people to ask questions or raise concerns
