New software - new strategy
July 2010
IT in Manufacturing
Do not change systems at warp speed.
Installation of a new software system requires the implementation of changes to the current system to improve productivity or efficiency. The change includes not only using a new software system, but also new methods and work practices. Initially, productivity and efficiency will more than likely reverse thrust, this is why it is necessary to anticipate and be prepared to deal with problems as they occur.
Asking people to do things differently means involving them early in the process otherwise they may not understand what is required of them. People establish ‘zones of stability’ and perform their tasks within these comfort regions. Management has the responsibility to get them to accept new ideas, for involving them and making them understand the changes that will take place and the benefits that will accrue.
When installing a new system, you inherently install change. Problems can occur in the technical and ‘how to’ functional areas of the change, as well as in the behavioural aspects. The technical problems are often the easiest to recognise and resolve. The ‘how to’ issues are by no means simple though and are usually strongly interrelated with the behavioural aspects. This is why managers must take responsibility for their people and constructively guide them towards the new objectives.
Readers interested in learning more about installation and change management projects written in a futuristic ‘Star Trek’ style can visit: http://instrumentation.co.za/+C13988A
For more information contact Gerhard Greeff, Bytes Systems Integration, +27 (0)11 205 7000, gerhard.greeff@bytes.co.za, www.bytes.co.za
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