For the implementation of a new software tool, user adoption is a key success factor. It helps win over the future tool users for the change in the long term. This is the only way to ensure real acceptance and sustainable successful use of a new project management tool or environment.
If the preparation and implementation are not accompanied by user adoption, the new project management tool will not deliver the expected benefits and return on investment. With the right approach, however, you will be well on the way to a sustainable solution.
Technical readiness and infrastructure are not the only important factors for a tool implementation; process-related and human components are also essential for success. People, Process and Tool all work together in achieving a goal.
Before the start of the implementation project, important questions should be addressed. This will increase the change readiness at the company. Examples of typical questions are:
| PM / PMO processes | Are there consistent project management standards & methods as well as possibly a project manual? Have roles and processes been defined and are they practiced? | |
| Resource planning | Has it already been determined who is responsible for the methods and processes for resource planning? | |
| Change management | Has it been fixed who will support the stakeholders in the change process? |
Holding on to the old system and processes: “I’m so used to the old system … What happens if I can’t cope with the new system?”
Lack of understanding or a different point of view: “I just can’t understand the point and the benefits of the new application / I see this quite differently.”
Additional effort seen as too high, few personal benefits: “I don’t see the advantage for myself that would justify the additional effort on my part.”
Fear of being overwhelmed: “I’m afraid that I’ll be overwhelmed by the demands of the new system.”
Skepticism due to failed system launches in the past: “The previous system launches have all failed. Where’s the guarantee that it will be different this time?”
All those involved in the project to introduce the tool and later on, must be clear about the following first:
Before you decide to introduce a new project, portfolio and resource management solution, you therefore need to check and increase your change readiness. With the knowledge gained from hundreds of solution implementations in over 25 years, TPG The Project Group is your reliable partner.
For instance, user adoption is part of the QuickStart Solutions for TPG ProjectPowerPack.
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