Here's how you can seamlessly incorporate new technology into your projects.

I am a great believer in testing out new technologies to help reduce costs; to use new products to improve sustainability etc. however teams need to see the benefits of these new technologies/ products— particularly in any form of local/central govt projects Getting spending approvals for using new technologies/non traditional methods is often met with “what has anybody else done?” This - despite claims of being “leaders in innovation “. New technologies need to be ahead of the game and show proof and commitment to ensure those trying to use new innovations can “sell” them to the “purse” or democratic controllers can buy in

Focus on Needs, Not Trends! Analyse your project's core needs before choosing tech. Engage your team. The right tech, chosen collaboratively, leads to smoother integration and happier users.

In IT projects, meticulous planning is paramount after identifying the appropriate technology. For example, in a project, we developed a comprehensive implementation strategy detailing timelines, resource allocation, and contingency plans. This involved conducting thorough assessments of infrastructure requirements, scheduling migration phases, and allocating roles and responsibilities to team members. By meticulously planning each step, we minimized disruptions, ensured smooth execution, and mitigated risks effectively. A detailed implementation strategy serves as a roadmap, guiding project activities and enabling proactive decision-making, ultimately leading to successful IT project delivery.

Plan for Smooth Takeoff, With an Agile Twist. Don't just pick the tech, plan its launch! Create a detailed strategy with timelines, resources, and backups, but build in agility. Technology landscapes can shift quickly, so be prepared to adapt your plan as needed. Pilot programs or phased rollouts can help you identify and address challenges early on, preventing major disruptions. This ensures a smooth integration while staying responsive to unforeseen circumstances.

Training can be phased so the information is provided in a way that supports learning. Too much information will overload the brain and poor retention will result. I suggest an overview first followed by training specific to user needs. For example, an individual may require access to one specific aspect of a technology, so train them on that. Once they are trained they are not competent in using the software. That comes with experience using it. Which means, of course, that training should occur when the individual is ready to use it. The overview can be a bit earlier but task specific training must be well timed.

Phased Rollout: Learning from Early Adopters. Don't overwhelm everyone at once. Pilot the technology with a small, enthusiastic group. These early adopters are more likely to champion the new system and provide valuable feedback. Use their insights to refine processes and identify training gaps before the wider rollout. This creates a smoother transition for everyone and fosters a sense of ownership among the pilot group, who can then become advocates for the technology.

In IT projects, closely monitoring the impact of new technology is crucial. For instance, in a project adopting a new programming language, we tracked key performance indicators (KPIs) such as code efficiency, bug resolution time, and developer satisfaction. This allowed us to assess the technology's influence on productivity, code quality, and team morale. By regularly evaluating KPIs, we identified areas of improvement, addressed challenges promptly, and optimized the utilization of the new technology. Monitoring the technology's impact ensures that project objectives are met efficiently and helps facilitate informed decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.