How do we get people to embrace a change and complete our three-legged stool for success (technology, processes and people)? 

Here are some suggestions.  There is no formula that will guarantee a win. 

Think of the following as ways to increase the odds of a positive technology implementation outcome.  

1. Involve the whole team in the decision process.  This increases their buy-in that will be necessary during implementation.
2. Communicate the vision for what the technology will bring to the practice.  Will it increase efficiency, improve profitability, better morale, attract new patients?  
3. Encourage feedback at every stage of the process.  Don’t let a “people” problem go undiagnosed.
4. Change may temporarily decrease work efficiency, if this is not planned for it will increase stress and the change will be blamed.
5. Introduce changes incrementally, whenever possible.  This is easier on your team and offers an opportunity to more easily fine tune the implementation.
6. Make sure your team is adequately trained.  This will increase acceptance and alleviates their fear.

If new technology acceptance becomes a people problem, it could be because the people lack either willingness or ability. 

You will find that items 1 through 4, above, address willingness while items 5 and 6 address ability. 

People problems can also creep in from another direction; your patients.  Recognize whether the technology change is going to impact this group and if so, you will need to incorporate a marketing effort that will advise them of the change and how it will benefit them.

Having your team willingly embrace a new technology implementation will always be a right click.  

Next week we’ll look at the technology component and how to be sure you’re making the right technology choice.