Selecting the right software for your remodeling business can be daunting—there are hundreds of options, the selection process is confusing, and implementation is often slow and disruptive.
When you’re considering software to improve your efficiency and communication, consider the following tips to make sure you get the results you envision.
1. Map the Business Processes
Adding technology to your business means a change to your company’s business process. That’s why you’re looking at technology anyways, right? Documenting your business process will create clarity for your team and will help you understand how the technology fits in your business. This will also ensure that you understand how multiple pieces of software can—or cannot—work together, and if they are a good fit for your unique situation.
The matrix below is a simple way to breakdown a business process into a more visual representation. Being more specific with the business process break down will help you develop a smooth implementation plan and allow you to disqualify software that will put stress on your team.
2. Ensure Team Buy-In
New technology often fails to bring its intended value because not everyone on the team has “bought in” to the reason for the change. Prior to looking at any specific solution, gather feedback from your team to understand their pain points with the current process and what’s important to them in a new system.
Be sure to include critical team members in the research process, the product demos, and the final selection. After all, they will likely be the heaviest users of whatever software is implemented.
3. Make the Most of Training & Support
Implementing software isn’t like ordering a package from Amazon. It’s more than a 48-hour process. Be prepared to invest time and money on training and support.
Utilize “Go-live” Training
Many software providers offer training packages as a part of onboarding and “go-live,” but they may come at a cost. Depending on your organization’s size, the complexity of the software, and the skillset of your team, opting for more training may be money well spent.
Successful implementation of other systems may require hiring a 3rd-party expert to get your team up to speed. Regardless, be sure to ask your software providers about the options for training.
Post-Launch Support
Just like in the remodeling business, challenges and on-the-fly adjustments are a given when you bring software into your business. Be intentional about checking-in periodically with your team about pinch-points in the workflows and other frustrations they may have. Weekly meetings may be necessary for complex implementations. Keep an open mind about tweaking and refining your processes as you go. This will ensure that your team doesn’t lose confidence in the new system and associated processes.
Many software providers have “super user” groups and ongoing training opportunities. Keep in touch with your sales representative so you can take advantage of opportunities for continuous improvement.
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