What do you do if your operational planning is disrupted by the adoption of new technology?

2 Update Goals

Your operational goals may need to evolve with the adoption of new technology. Revisit your objectives and adjust them to align with the capabilities and efficiencies that the new tech provides. This might mean setting higher productivity targets or redefining quality standards. Ensure that your updated goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) to provide clear direction for your team.

3 Train Staff

One of the biggest challenges in adopting new technology is ensuring that your staff are equipped to use it effectively. Develop a comprehensive training program that covers both the technical skills required to operate the new technology and the operational changes that come with it. This will likely involve a combination of hands-on training, workshops, and possibly even bringing in external trainers or experts.

4 Revise Processes

With new technology in place, many of your existing processes will need to be revised or replaced. Map out your current workflows and identify where changes are necessary. This may involve redesigning procedures to integrate the new technology, removing redundant steps, or creating entirely new processes. Documentation is key here; ensure that all changes are well-documented and accessible to all relevant personnel.

5 Implement Gradually

When integrating new technology into your operations, it's often wise to take a phased approach. Start by implementing the technology in a controlled environment or department before rolling it out company-wide. This allows you to iron out any issues on a smaller scale and reduces the risk of widespread disruption. Monitor progress closely and make adjustments as needed.

6 Monitor Results

After you've integrated the new technology and updated your operational plan, it's essential to monitor the results closely. Track key performance indicators (KPIs) to gauge the effectiveness of the technology and the efficiency of your revised operations. This data will inform you if further adjustments are needed and will help quantify the benefits of the new technology for your organization.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?