Everything changes, especially in terms of technology in the workplace. It may seem strange to be on the lookout for software that can help better understand and manage employees and even ascertain what would be the best employee recognition program, but many businesses are using new systems to help become more efficient.
There are a lot of options to consider when sorting through the many software and technology on the market. You want to find a system that will be easy to use and will make the transition simple for everyone. The right tool will not only benefit your business but also can help attract and retain the best employees in your area because they are engaged and recognized.
As you look at the different systems, remember that you’re looking for a solution to help your company grow. The technology you choose could affect your business for years to come, so take your time and don’t pick hastily. Here are some expert tips to help you determine which will be the right match.
1. Know Your Growth Areas
Take a close look at the day to day operations. Use a critical eye to determine where a software system could help your company. If you aren’t sure which problems you’re hoping to solve, you won’t be able to choose a program to help. It may feel uncomfortable to face some of these issues head-on. Remember that you’re doing so to improve the business in the long run.
Every business could stand to improve somewhere. There’s no need to feel shame when you identify an issue. It also may be that the priorities of your business are changing, and you need to find a technology that can help you transition. Knowing where your opportunities for growth lie is essential for choosing the correct program.
For instance, perhaps scheduling employees has been a problem in the past. You may be on the lookout for software that not only is easy and intuitive to use but can help be certain the right resources are scheduled to work on the right tasks as well. There is likely software that can help you fix problems and improve overall: but only if you’re honest about where you need help.
2. What Is The Set-Up Like?
Some software which can be used to measure employee engagement will be cloud-based, while others will need to be installed manually. Perhaps you have a specific strong feeling for or against either option. Just because the options on the market look like they’ll work for you and will be easy to use doesn’t make them the right fit.
Cloud-based software makes set up a breeze, but will only work if everyone can connect to the internet. There are other benefits to cloud-based software including access when employees are working remotely. You will best know which programs will fit within your company culture, but be aware that not all software works the same.
3. Is It Easy to Use and Flexible?
Technology can be wonderful. However, if you are constantly worried about user error or even have an employee who refuses to learn new technologies, you may be out of luck. Whatever software you opt for should be user friendly and intuitive. If a program requires complicated or unnecessary steps, you may want to keep looking.
You don’t want to bog down your job with tedious work that makes your old system look good. You’ve already admitted what wasn’t working well so don’t backtrack. An online demo may seem great and a system may have a nice looking brochure. But that doesn’t mean their system will be right for you.
After you’ve done your homework and you’re feeling secure about your pick: feel free to ask for a free trial. Have a few different people test out the system. You want to be certain it’s as user friendly as possible while still fulfilling the needs of your business. If your choice more often than not confuses your sample group, you might need to keep looking.
Certainly, there will be a learning curve for anything new, but it shouldn’t be so steep it can’t be conquered. Finding software that is easy to use shouldn’t be difficult, but it is important you’ve done your research to make the transition process run more smoothly for your business and employees.
It’s also important to ask if you’ll receive customer support during the onboarding process and for the length of your time using the software. If one option offers more support to your business and can help you troubleshoot as you’re learning, it might be the better fit for your company. Even easy to use programs will require some support from time to time.
For software to be useful, you will need to customize it for your business needs. Look for software options that have customizable features. If a program can not be tweaked, it may not be a good fit for your company. Don’t underestimate the benefit of flexibility.
4. Does It Fit Your Budget?
It’s important to know your budget before you start looking at technology options. It could be disheartening and a waste of your time to try out new software that you ultimately can’t afford. There are a lot of options out there. While there are great choices for large-scale companies they might not work as well for your business when it comes to budget.
The same might be true in reverse, while you may prefer the less expensive package. However, your business may benefit from a more complete option that can fulfill the needs of the company. The right program will be worth the money, but knowing your budget ahead of time can be helpful as you choose the right fit.
A Final Thought
It can be disappointing to put in the work and find out the software you’ve chosen won’t actually work at all or is too expensive for your business. But having a trial run, knowing what problems you’re trying to solve and your budget ahead of time can make the decision process run smoothly.
Think from your team’s point of view as you decide which program to use. All employees are unique and will require a little more or less help with your new technology. There’s likely one option that will benefit you the most in the long run. Employee management technology is investing in your team, so choose the system that will add the most value.
Guest post courtesy of Gabe Nelson
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