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How to Make Employees Less Resistant to Online Work Management Software

Adopting online work management software will result in improved project management. A good work management software allows improved collaboration and better management of the resources. However, for teams that have achieved acceptable results following the old traditional method, embracing digital solutions will represent a parading shift. It will result in resistance from the employees in the form of complaints, sabotage, and even rebellion.  This is because introducing a new work process requires unlearning older, more comfortable methods and learning new ones.  Both of which require additional effort on part of the employees.

As a manager, it’s important that you lead the team to accept the change. The tips mentioned below can help in making the employees less resistant to change, and find common grounds to accepting the digital technology.

1. State the Reason for Change

The managers should clearly explain to the employees the reason for adopting the online project management software. Consider laying down the benefit of cloud-based project management software such as improved communication, easy access, and flexible work arrangement.

The acceptance of change must be led from top to down. Senior managers should convey the reasons for making the switch to an online project management software. They should answer concerns and queries of the employees and remove any confusion relating to the change.

2. Address the Fears

According to an article published in the Hayward Business Review, project management professor Rosabeth Moss Kantar had explained some of the reasons employee resists change.  The common theme was fear that made employees resistant to adopting new ways of doing things.

The fears regarding online project management software include losing reputation, role, and responsibilities. These fears make employees resistant to the new processes.  Making the employees accept the change will require addressing these fears first.

3. Get Feedback from the Employees

The employees should be given a chance to be heard. They should be allowed to air their concerns regarding the new project management software. Responding to the feedbacks will help in a smooth transition to the new software.

4. Provide Training to the Employees

The employees should be provided training regarding the adoption of the new system. The team that is trained for change will not only be receptive but also use the new tool effectively. This is where most companies fail in making the transition successful. It’s essential that proper resources and time be allocated to ensure training of the employees. Through training, employees will become aware of the benefits of the new technology due to which there will be less resistance to change. 

5. Reward Employees for Acceptance

The management should reward the time and effort undertaken by the employees for learning about the new system. This will incentivize the employees in quickly making the transition to the new software. 

The above steps can help the project manager to make employees accept the change. It will help in quick implementation of the online project management software, and ensure employee buy-in for the new technology. The end result will be improved collaboration, productivity, and profitability for the company.