We came across a good article recently about implementing new software by Hamish Howard, the director of Assura Software.

In his article, Howard says  With any system, one of your big concerns could be “will my staff use or keep using it?”

We see this in the fitness and leisure industry. The success of a software program often comes down to how your team embrace and implement the program.

Tip 1: Use your Champions

In the article, Howard writes “Your ‘champions’ aren’t just managers, but actual end-user employees”.

“Your champions can promote system use and get other staff excited about what streamlining processes deliver. Basically, they can help your team see how stuff can be made easier.”

We find this in our experience, there are always one or two team members who are more excited about the potential of a new program. Use these team members to engage and work with other staff to get them up to speed.

Tip 2: Let everyone know what success looks like

Howard says, “The more you share with your team, the more likely they are to join the party.” They should have a clear understanding of why your are implementing this solution and what the ideal end result should be. When people understand the reason “why” they are more likely to buy in to the project.

Tip 3: Share your commitment to making jobs easier

The 3rd tip in the article was about clearly highlighting to staff what’s in it for them,

“At the end of the day, you’re trying to streamline processes to make your people’s jobs easier. Us humans are pretty simple, at the end of the day, most of us are compelled by ‘what’s in it for us’.”

We see this in our industry. When a feature in our software helps eliminate a boring and time-consuming task that staff currently complete they almost instantly become excited and “buy-in” to the project.

Tip 4: Invest in On-going Training & Contingency Plans

The final tip was about the importance of ongoing training. Howard says “First off, don’t be the Grinch. With any new system, you have to invest in an internal rollout and basic user training”

“The same goes for an existing system. You will have staff turnover, you may have changed your original installation – and life just happens. As a result, you need to offer refreshers, one-on-one training – in fact, ask your people what they want?”

This is a big one we see in the leisure industry where staff turn over can be considerable. If you invest a small amount each year on ongoing training you will most likely see a much higher skill level across your team and a higher return on investment in the long run.

We hope these points resonate with you and help you improve the results you get from our software.