subject: 4 Ways To Get Employees To Use A CRM System [print this page] 4 Ways To Get Employees To Use A CRM System
Research shows that we still have a long way to go when it comes to software adoption such as CRM System, causing companies to lose by the thousands and the millions on software expenditures. Although software adoption is less severe today, it still remains a challenge.
For instance, a survey done in 2011 revealed that:
* 80.1% of Senior Executives cannot get their employees to use the system
* 43.2% of the respondents uses less than half of the system's functionality
* 72.7% of the respondents would trade functionality for ease-of-use
* 50.4% of the respondents cited synchronization as a major issue
* 67.5% of the respondents said they need to find time to evaluate the system
Basing on the research results that were gathered, it is obvious that humans in general, is by nature, averse to any change. For most people, going out of one's comfort zone may create some apprehension which does not feel good at all.
Today, the challenge to address and overcome low software adoption rates are causing companies to lose thousands and millions of dollars every year. This perennial problem has therefore prompted specialists to formulate some recommendations to boost adoption rates and gradually get them to use the system in their daily workflow.
A few of the tips to help improve CRM System adoption are:
1. Find a system that best suits your company's needs
>There are hundreds of CRM Systems but they are not the same. It does not always follow with CRM System that more features mean better system. Choose a system with functionalities that works for you, is easy to use or simple and user-friendly.
2. Assess employee capabilities individually
>Every employee is a unique individual - each has his or her own share of strengths and weaknesses. Some employees may find using a totally new system exciting and may look forward to it but for some it could be intimidating. This may elicit some resistance initially. Make them realise that the time they dedicate on learning the CRM System will bring forth rewards and personal advancement. Motivate your employees that constant use of the application will hone their skills and make them experts in no time.
3. Set aside time for training
>A help desk or an in-house mentor would lessen their apprehension knowing they have the support they need. Allow employees to gradually get accustomed to the system. Allocating separate time for training will help them learn faster,knowing that they're not being rushed.
4. Be a role model
>Top management must use the new application themselves to show employees that they fully support the application, and can successfully handle it. This is a great way to motivate employees that they too possess the capability to use the system without difficulty.
The road may be winding and tough but ensuring that you cover all these factors will no doubt take you towards achieving the full promise that CRM holds for these users.
