How To Introduce New Technology To Your Workforce

Rail contractors are under constant pressure to do more, with less. New technology has the potential to improve productivity and efficiency, but it can face resistance from the workforce. Sometimes the benefits or reasons are not clearly communicated, or it could be that the new processes are confusing and badly explained.

But with careful planning, consideration and the right provider, introducing new technology doesn’t need to be a headache. You can get your workforce behind you by following these 5 tips.

Be Transparent

With all the consideration that goes into finding, buying and implementing a new technology in the boardroom, it can be easy to forget that not everyone has the same level of insight that you do. 

Before introducing a new software solution explain to your workforce why you are doing it, what you are hoping the result will be and how it will affect them. By including them in the decision-making process you increase your chances of widespread buy in and people will feel that their needs have been taken into consideration. This can also nurture an environment wherein people feel more comfortable voicing their concerns.

Get Out On Site

It’s vital to take any new technology out into the field and see how it works on a practical level. Does it fit your needs? Can your workforce use it? Take advantage of free trial periods and pilot projects to identify any potential problems early on. 

Most software solution providers can offer customisation to make sure the product fits your processes and work requirements, and they should all have an in-depth understanding of your different user roles, including how each member of your team will use and interact with the product. Testing the technology on site is key to getting the solution that works for you.

Listen To Feedback & Work With The Provider To Address Concerns

At the end of your trial period, ask for feedback from everyone who used or was affected by the product. Find out what they liked, what they didn’t like and how long it took them to complete certain processes. Keep an eye out for anything that comes up multiple times.

Then, you should relay this feedback to the technology provider. If they are dedicated to customer success and long-term implementation, they’ll work with you to create an action plan that addresses the concerns of your users. It could be product customisation, differing user permissions or just extra training - they can work with you to find a solution.

Consider Different Learning Styles & Offer Comprehensive Support

It’s time to get rid of dense, paper manuals. People learn in different ways, so you should cater to that by providing training information in a range of formats:

• Visual learners: Process information using charts and images to visualise concepts. Infographics and videos are a good way to deliver training to this group.
• Auditory learners: This group absorbs information best when it is spoken to them through in-person training and discussion.
• Read/Write learners: Enjoy reading information and making their own notes to process it. For this group, online resources, emails and documentation that they can refer back to are best.
• Kinaesthetic learners: Process information by practicing and creating their own experiences of using a product. A practical demonstration and pilot use of the technology is the best way for this group to learn.

Provide your product training in multiple formats, with an approach that is tailored to your workforce and their needs. The success of your project relies on them making the best possible use of technology.

Keep The Momentum Going

The biggest mistake a company can make is to launch a new solution with initial training and then just forget about it. Six months later, you’ll be wondering why the scheme failed and looking outward for answers.

Regularly checking in with your staff and updating training materials are the best way to make sure that new technology is a long-term investment, not a temporary crush. 

In conclusion, introducing new technology can be a game-changer for rail contractors, but it's important to do it right.

By following the tips outlined in this blog, including being transparent with your workforce, testing the technology on-site, listening to feedback, providing comprehensive support, and keeping the momentum going, you can successfully implement new technology in a way that improves productivity and efficiency.

At Raildiary, we are dedicated to helping you achieve success by offering training and support throughout the entire project lifecycle.

Book your free product demonstration today to learn more about how we can help you get the most out of your construction software.

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