It's hardware that makes a machine fast. It's software that makes a fast machine slow. — Craig Bruce

This is our first guest post! It’s from Carla Lopez at boomerbiz.org — Thanks Carla!

As a business, technology is your greatest ally. Everything you need to keep your company chugging along can be done with tech, including managing customer relations, payment processing, cybersecurity, inventory management, etc. — click here for more. To stay up to date, you may have to replace older software versions from time to time. We have compiled a guide of considerations before your next big rollout.

1. Do Not Rush the Process

Although the decision-makers at your organization may be excited to implement the replacement software, it is important to follow the steps above and not rush the decision. Take the time to plan, talk it over, and then plan again.

2. Understand Exactly What You Need

Before you settle on a specific software program, you need to look at your business and understand what you really need. Think about your current tasks and the projects you hope to do in the future and verify that this new software will supply what you need for years to come.

While you are estimating your future plans for your business, you also need to take a close look at your budget to determine what you can truly afford. If there isn’t room to buy the replacement software that will make a real difference, then you may want to wait until you have the funds.

3. Involve the Employees

While management may have some great ideas about current operations and plans for the future, it is imperative that you also include the employees. Ask their opinion on what the current software does and what can be improved so they can better complete their jobs effectively.

There will likely be employees within your organization who are critical of the replacement software, and those folks must not be ignored. Listen and determine if there is any merit to their concerns and add that information to your final decision.

4. Have a Troubleshooting Plan

Part of your replacement software implementation strategy must include a plan for how you will troubleshoot issues and handle unexpected bugs, while also understanding how long a typical fix may take. Also, make sure there is a pathway to the program designers if employees have trouble using the software as designed so they can get their questions answered.

5. Include a Training Process

As you are implementing the software, organize at least one training session in which all employees and their managers can see the program in action and apply it to their own work. As the replacement software is still new, look for new ways to add it into your everyday work lives, including within management meetings.

6. Communication Will Be Key

Remember that software implementation is not a “set it and forget it” type of thing. Instead, management needs to see how the program is evolving and if the employees are taking full advantage. Request regular updates or weekly meetings where concerns or successes are brought forth. Make sure there is a designated person to contact so employees know with whom to speak when they have issues.

7. Cybersecurity

Perhaps the most important point is to ensure that your new software is protected against cyber threats. The last thing you need is to have a comprehensive system that meets all of your needs, only to allow a vulnerability that enables a hacker to steal sensitive client data. Ask the vendor about any and all built-in security protections.

8. Continuous Improvement

Even once the replacement software is going full steam at your organization, you will need to focus on continuous improvement as you continue to make the program your own. Encourage users to test out new practices and take online webinars to learn the full extent of what the software can do.

As you can see, there is a lot to consider when implementing replacement software for the improvement of your business. Take the right steps and set yourself up for success.

Best Practices for Replacement Software Rollouts