Why it’s easier than you think to implement IT solutions
In our previous blog, we wrote about how NOT to get spooked by IT implementation. Today we will show you how it is easier than you think to go through with implementing IT solutions, if done properly and efficiently.
First things first, know what you need and want for your business. Speak to your employees to see what they need from a new system to efficiently complete their tasks. By having specific goals and a list of improvements you are looking to have, will not only make your project manager’s life easier but also that of your IT provider’s. On top of this, take the time to write down all the problems and challenges your team was facing with the old system, to be able to track the success of the new solution once it is implemented. By having everyone involved in this project can make for a smooth transition and implementation process as everyone will be on the same page and know of the changes going on.
Once all of this is clearly stated, it’s time to define a complete plan of action and workflow. Of course this part is best if done with the IT Provider, as they can provide the estimates of the project length and budget as well as what data they will need from your team and when they will need it.
IT Solutions: Customization
Many times, customization is required. By having the IT provider do an initial analysis of the project and an analysis of the customization work needed, will allow them to give a better approximation of the project time frame and budget. Without this analysis, it is difficult to make a proper estimation and this is when projects take longer than originally planned and go over budget. Just like any other business project, unexpected issues may arise but with continuous communication between all parties, these issues can be solved quickly.
Therefore, with a project manager ready to go and an available and helpful IT Provider, implementation can go smoothly. It’s a team effort and with everyone willing to pitch in and provide feedback and the necessary data the IT team requires, a project like this can be on time and within budget, without giving any headaches to the company’s executives.
IT Solutions: User Training and IT Support
Two extremely important points that will finalize this process and ensure maximum efficiency has to do with user training and IT support after implementation. User training is often overlooked or ignored due to the added costs. However, training of the employees on how to use the new solution is crucial so everyone from all departments knows how to properly use it right from the start to reduce errors and misunderstandings later on. Support after implementation will also help if any problems pop up at a later time. An available IT provider is definitely something to look for.
Of course, things don’t always go as planned as mentioned before but they can be managed properly. It’s very important to plan ahead of time, account for any unplanned happenings and work together as a team to keep each other in the loop. IT implementation is a group project bringing together a business and an IT provider to create the best solutions for maximum business efficiency.
So, what do you think now about IT implementation? Easy, right?
