The Shocking Truth About Employee Communication Apps

We’ve all heard the myths about employee communication apps. Maybe you’ve wondered if they’re really worth the investment or worried about the hassle of implementing a new system. It’s time to clear the air and reveal how these tools can truly transform your workplace.

1. Myth: "What's the real ROI of communication apps?"

Reality: These apps deliver huge ROI by boosting engagement, productivity, and streamlining workflows. Imagine saving hours each week and making smarter decisions. Companies using these tools see incredible returns.

2. Myth: "Frontline employees hate change."

Reality: Change can be tough, but with the right approach, it can be a game-changer. Frontline workers love apps that make their jobs easier and more efficient.

3. Myth: "Using personal devices for work? That’s a security nightmare."

Reality: Today's apps come with top-notch security features like encryption and advanced protocols. With the right training, your data stays safe and your team stays connected.

4. Myth: "New apps are too hard to implement."

Reality: Think again! Apps like Speakap are designed for rapid deployment with lots of support and training. A phased approach makes the transition smooth and easy.

5. Myth: "Security and privacy concerns are too risky."

Reality: App providers prioritize security and compliance with international standards like GDPR. Choosing apps with strong security measures ensures peace of mind.

6. Myth: "These apps are too expensive."

Reality: These apps are investments that pay off big time by consolidating platforms, saving time, and boosting productivity and engagement.

Trending Now: The Evolution of Internal Communication Tools

Internal communication tools are evolving rapidly. With Meta announcing the shutdown of its Workplace platform, companies are rethinking their communication strategies. This shift highlights the growing need for reliable, efficient, and secure tools to keep teams connected and engaged. The trend towards hybrid work models makes these tools even more critical. Businesses are now looking for solutions that integrate seamlessly with their existing systems, provide real-time updates, and ensure data security. It’s a perfect time to explore options that meet your organization’s needs and set the stage for future success.

David Heinemeier Hansson, co-owner & CTO of 37signals, puts it succinctly: "The saying 'nobody ever got fired for buying IBM' is about risk management. The traditional wisdom suggests that buying from a big company is the safe choice. But with Meta shutting down Workplace, it's clear this isn't foolproof anymore. This highlights the risk of relying on big tech like Meta and Google. Their ad-based cash cows are so profitable that other products can be discontinued without notice. Whether it’s the millions of Workplace users or Google Domains customers, they can be left scrambling when these platforms are deemed 'non-core' and killed off."

Hansson advises, "Buying from big isn't the sure bet they want you to believe. Buy from someone who actually needs your business to make the wheels go round."

2 Tips For Building Stakeholder Buy-In For A Dedicated Employee Communications App?

How do you convince stakeholders that a dedicated communication platform isn't just another tool in the mix, but the key to unlocking a truly engaged and informed workforce?

#1 Embrace the "dark side" - focus on risk reduction & put a price tag on the problem

Don't underestimate the power of focusing on the "dark side." People are naturally more motivated by avoiding loss than potential gain. To secure stakeholder buy-in for your employee app,? lead with the pain by highlighting the negative consequences of the current system. Use data to illustrate high turnover rates, low training effectiveness, or missed growth targets.? Quantify the problem in numbers by showing how high turnover costs millions in lost productivity and recruitment, or how disengaged employees lead to missed sales or safety hazards.

When framing the issue in terms of risk reduction and quantifiable losses, you'll shift the conversation from "maybe" to "must-have," paving the way for a successful buy-in for your employee app. Here are a few other ways you can reframe your messaging around the need for a centralized employee communications app to make a stronger case for it:

#2 Speak their language - metrics and ROI

While highlighting the app's functionalities is tempting, stakeholders truly care about the impact it has on the business.? So, focus on translating those features into real, measurable benefits. To further amplify your case, you can use case studies or industry benchmarks to showcase how similar companies achieved success with employee apps.

Here are two examples of the ROI a dedicated employee communication platform can deliver:

1. For instance, a hospitality and retail company with over 12,500 employees saw a 20% reduction in training costs (saving $1,350,000 annually) and achieved 18% faster onboarding after implementing an employee app with features like employee onboarding journeys. This translates to total savings of $4,255,875 over three years, with an annual investment of just $72,000.
2. In another example, a logistics company with more than 2,000 employees reduced meeting time by 50%, saving an estimated $371,250 annually. By using an app to share stand-up topics beforehand, they freed up time for focused work. This resulted in total savings of $1,170,365 over three years, with an annual investment of $225,000.

If you focus on the quantifiable benefits and the risk reduction a dedicated platform offers, you will break through the "we already have a tool for that" mentality your stakeholders have and pave the way for a more engaged and productive workforce.

Download our guide on “How to determine the ROI of an Employee Communications Platform”.

Ensuring Your App Launch Succeeds

Launching a new app? Ensure success with these five stages:

1. Plan for high adoption: Set clear goals and identify challenges the app can solve.
2. Prepare for launch: Create excitement with pre-launch marketing and engage your team.
3. Launch with a bang: Host a company-wide event to showcase the app's value.
4. Ensure high active users: Integrate the app into onboarding and provide useful resources.
5. Keep employees engaged: Regularly update content and offer incentives.

For more details, check out our blog on 5 Stages to Launching an Employee App.

Case Study: WISAG’s Amazing Transformation

WISAG, a leading service provider in Germany, needed to connect 50,000 employees, many without a company email address. They implemented the MyWISAG app, developed by Speakap, revolutionizing their internal communication.

The results? A 30% productivity boost and a 4% increase in employee retention. Now, everyone stays engaged and informed, no matter where they are.

Join the Community of Forward-Thinking Companies

It's time to leave the myths behind and embrace the future. Employee communication apps are the key to unlocking unparalleled productivity and engagement. Start exploring the best apps for your organization today.

Curious to see how these tools can transform your operations? Visit our website or contact us for more insights and a personalized consultation.