Technology is a huge part of today’s workplace. Many dealerships are now using various types of technologies from dealership management software to CRMs and cloud-based accounting systems. These software solutions are making dealers more efficient and productive. However, many dealers are finding out their employees do not use the technology the correct way. This leads to decreased productivity and frustration (for customers, employees, partners, etc). In this blog post, we will discuss seven tips and tricks for getting your team to use your new software the right way!
1) Outline how your team should use the technology
Remember your employees are not all tech whizzes. Just because they know how to post a story on your Instagram account doesn’t guarantee they will know how to use the software. Never assume your team will just be able to pick up software without training.
2) Choose a product admin/owner:
Before launching any new software, assign a team member to be the product admin. This person’s role will be to fully understand the product and be the go-to resource for all your team members. Not sure where to enter a phone number or need to build a report? The product admin should be able to either know the answer or know where to find it.
+Productivity tip: Schedule regular check-ins with the product admin/owner to ensure they are using the technology correctly and efficiently. 
3) Explain the benefits of the technology to the team
Take the time to explain to employees how the technology will make their lives easier. For example, if you are implementing a new management software, explain to them how it will help them with their time tracking or simplify the ordering process by reducing the onscreen clicks from 10 to 3. By understanding the benefits, employees will see the value in following the processes you’ve outlined in the training and avoid coming up with shortcuts.
+Pro tip: Use data and analytics to show your employees exactly how the technology is benefiting them and the company.
4) You can never have enough training
For any new software, there’s going to be a learning curve. Set aside time to get all team members trained on how to use it properly. Some vendors offer training webinars that you can sign up for. This would be something the product admin could schedule or set up.
5) Become a quizmaster
Check in with your team after the first week, month, and quarter on the technology they are using. If there are no questions, go ahead and quiz them on certain tasks or functions. You can set up your own quiz for free on a website like Typeform or just ask questions on the spot. The goal isn’t to embarrass your team but rather to be proactive so they aren’t fumbling around in front of a customer.
6. Schedule quarterly training:
Chances are a lot of the technology you’re using is packed with features and functionality. If you’re lucky (like Blackpurl users), you’ll be getting free product updates monthly. It’s important to dedicate time each quarter to ensure your team is up-to-date on all the features. This will help eliminate any frustration around “not knowing how to do something.”
+Best practices tip: Buy your team lunch and make it a fun event.”
7. Listen to feedback:
At the end of the day, you need your employees to buy into the technology. This is why it’s important to listen to feedback and make changes accordingly. If there are questions or concerns, this is where the product admin steps in and follows up with the technology provider to find solutions.
+Lack of adoption tip: If you’re noticing a lack of adoption around certain technology, take the time to understand why that might be. Maybe the process isn’t as streamlined as you thought, or maybe employees are just resistant to change.
A Little Preparation Now Will Go a Long Way
Technology can be a great asset to companies when used correctly. However, getting employees to use it the correct way can be a challenge. . By following these seven tips and tricks for helping your employees use technology the right way, you’ll help ensure that your team is productive and efficient at using the technology at their disposal.
