The automation technology worked perfectly. Nobody used it. Six months later, people were back to the old way. This happens 70% of the time. The problem is not technology. It is change management.
People resist automation for rational reasons. They fear job loss. They distrust unfamiliar systems. They have built expertise in the current process. Ignoring these concerns guarantees failure.
Key Takeaway
Success leaves clues. Study what worked for similar businesses, then adapt to your specific context.
Start with why before what. Explain the business case. Show how automation helps them specifically. Connect to goals they care about. People support what they help create.
Involve users in design. The people doing the work know the edge cases. They spot problems you will miss. And involvement creates ownership. Top-down automation breeds resentment.
Communicate obsessively. Before launch: what is coming and why. During launch: what is happening and how to help. After launch: what is working and what is next. Silence breeds anxiety.
Address job security directly. Be honest about impacts. If roles will change, say so. If jobs are safe, commit publicly. Ambiguity creates more fear than bad news.
"The companies that thrive are not those with the most technology, but those who apply technology most thoughtfully.
Provide training that actually trains. Not a one-hour overview. Hands-on practice. Reference materials. Ongoing support. People need to feel confident before they will adopt.
Celebrate early wins loudly. When automation works, publicize it. When someone uses it successfully, recognize them. Success stories build momentum.
The Challenge
- •Overwhelmed with tasks
- •No time for strategy
- •Inconsistent results
- •Constant stress
The Transformation
- •Focus on priorities
- •Strategic thinking time
- •Predictable outcomes
- •Sustainable pace
Plan for the dip. Productivity typically drops before it improves. Warn stakeholders. Budget extra support during transition. Do not abandon ship when the dip happens.
Measure adoption, not just deployment. The project is not done when the system launches. The project is done when everyone uses it correctly. Keep pushing until adoption is real.
