they want to accomplish . He explained that since implementing small-scope technology has become easier over the past 10 years , it is tempting to take advantage of the immediate business value . However , this can lead to long-term issues concerning scalability or support that are difficult to address .
“ Most solutions are built to accommodate a certain scale and it ’ s important to plan for replacements when that scale has been exceeded ,” Margas said . He drew a comparison between technology and a relay race . “ You want to minimize the number of legs in the race because small organizations can ’ t afford the cost and don ’ t have the resources to be in perpetual development of new solutions .”
Holt added , “ Technologies don ’ t magically create the best processes . Typically , they enable an already solid process to become more efficient . A technology that truly enhances an organization ' s operations should help augment each team member ' s efforts and focus .”
Darbe expressed a similar sentiment . “ Process and planning trump technology when it comes to enhancing operations at the club level ,” he said . “ Technology is a tool and , as with any tool , it is only as effective as the skill of the team using it .”
Challenges of Adopting New Technologies and How to Overcome Them
Spencer outlined a few of the challenges that come along with adopting new technologies , explaining that leadership needs to support the innovation and that the group needs to understand how much time it will take to implement . She also pointed out that people might not be comfortable with new technologies right away
and that they can be resistant to learning , so it is important to have sufficient training to mitigate disruption as much as possible .
Margas explained that reconciling data can be a challenge . Multiple systems and data sources can make it difficult to find out what the “ truth ” is when implementing a new system and trying to tie out the new system ’ s data . “ Overcoming this requires tying to the ‘ most reliable ’ legacy data source ( to the extent that can be ascertained ) and suppressing the use of the legacy data sources going forward ,” he said .
Like Spencer , Margas sees user adoption as another potential barrier . To overcome this , he suggested creating job aids that give the “ from-to ” processes for the user to execute to help them feel more comfortable with the transition , as well as providing support if people still are not comfortable . It can also be helpful to highlight the business values of the new system and outline the problems with the legacy system .
Whether it is communications , project management or managing data , technology can be a helpful tool to improve efficiency . However , it is important to have the appropriate processes in place to ensure that the team is using it properly to achieve its full potential . Franchisees must also anticipate the challenges they may face when adopting technology . It takes time for a team to adjust to new technologies or platforms , but in the long run , it could be a worthwhile undertaking . G
Kate Betts is the PFIFC communications coordinator . Betts may be reached at kateb @ pffranchisee . org or 678-737-2396 .
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GearedUp | 2020 Issue 4
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