Not-So-Basic Training

Have you ever invested in an expensive new database program, productivity suite or document management system, only to have your employees completely ignore it? In small companies, new technology sometimes goes underutilized when workers lack the knowledge or interest to make it work--draining the productivity gains and competitive edge you expected from your investment. What you may not realize is that the lack of interest and participation may be your fault.

All too often, employees are presented with unfamiliar technology and left to figure it out for themselves. Then, faced with a high-pressure situation, they revert back to the old method of doing things just to get the job done--never to return to the new system. Of course, this scenario doesn't have to become a reality in your business. But here's the catch: You must be willing to follow a few basic rules during the implementation, training and support phases of a new technology rollout.