We recently held a webinar on 8 Steps to a Streamlined Software Implementation here at Austin Lane, given by our very own Robert Zimmerman. Here is a blog post written by Robert about the 8 Steps!

It’s All About Focus!

The reason AI is so powerful when it comes to sorting information is because it can multi-task.  Humans, on the other hand, cannot multi-task. The construction industry is filled with humans, so implementing software is much like asking them to multi-task.

While electrical contractor employees are thinking about electrical contractor work, software will not dominate the focus on re-wiring an old panel or installing a new transformer. The same goes for other trades and the support teams that supply them. So, let’s be clear: software is a tool for the construction industry and not a “core focus.”

If the software tool is installed improperly or does not function when needed, then it is a waste of time and a total distraction. How to simplify that software integration?  I’m glad you asked.  I’ve recently put together a short webinar on the –

8 Steps to Streamlined Software Implementation

Like any delicious meal, you’ve got to spend a good amount of time preparing for that showstopper of a signature dish.  This seems like common sense, but even Thanksgiving dinner can quickly become, “Hey, let’s order pizza instead.”

The 8 Steps:

• The Why
• The Challenges
• The Needs
• The Plan
• The Team
• The Migration
• The Rollout
• The Measure

The Why

You don’t have to be a mental giant here. Just look at the statistics for construction companies who fail to adopt software.  Incremental improvements in cost, communication, and safety will be well worth the price.  Use the why to answer the naysayers and motivate the go-getters.

The Challenges

Software has been around for a long time now, and legacy software doesn’t always play nicely with others. Cost will always be a challenge because it is hard to weigh the “juice being worth the squeeze.”  Statistically, it is there, but you’ll need to measure it accurately for a complete analysis.  Siloed data is a big one as well.  I don’t think we realize how important our data is until we don’t have it.

Pro tip – you’re probably going to run into several challenges, but it is good to identify as many potential monsters as possible.

The Needs

Outline (visually works great) your business and the processes, but don’t expect software to bandage a broken process.  Before implementing new software, analyze your current systems and processes and be honest about the areas of bottleneck or breakdown. Start there and be prepared to change your approach with software as a tool.

Review this Needs Analysis a couple of times and separate the needs from wants.  A good, solid solution should resolve about 80% with 20% effort (Pareto’s Law).  Don’t get paralyzed by the 100% solution fallacy. It’s a ghost that lives in internet lore and conspiracy pages.

The Plan

The team will create the plan, but you must also plan for who is on the team.  A plan has a timeline with completion dates; otherwise, it is a guess.  A plan has accountability, personnel, and material considerations but no dictation.  Don’t leave the IT team out, and don’t include someone who has no time or hates the product.

The Team

The most crucial part of software is its champions.  Without them, the software would be nothing to a company.  Champions at every level are needed.  The implementation director, leadership, trainers, and technical staff must all be on board to optimize for success.

These first five are vital components for real success in the last three action steps.  I can assure you success if quality focus is spent on these preparation steps.  The last three will be a direct result of the first 5.

The Migration

We already know that data won’t migrate itself. That’s why we have siloing or fragmentation issues.  Prep your data properly.  Back it up first, Analyze and validate next, and then test incrementally for proper results in a TEST area.  Do NOT Use Live Data.

The Rollout

This is gameday with all the players and coaches on the field ready for the big showdown. Keep an open mind, communicate openly, take notes, and be patient.  This will most likely be a breeze if quality time is spent preparing in the first five steps.  Roll out the software in increments where possible; these are wonderful, controlled environments that can deliver detailed progress information and prepare teams for the next round.

The Measure

Don’t skip this one. This is where you learn about yourself and your company at all levels.  These measurements will validate your entire effort and offer real insights into the people responsible for your company.

Conclusion:

This all seems like common sense, right? The truth is that the construction business doesn’t do well with this process, mainly due to other core focuses being the primary objective from week to week. Do your best to schedule the teamwork during off hours or during slow times. If that’s not possible, prepare everyone on the team for extra hours. This may not sound pleasant, but the alternative is worse, much worse.

I do hope you refer to these steps to make your implementation a bearable success! If you have questions or comments, don’t hesitate to reach out: r.zimmerman@austinlane.com