Analytics First – A Consideration for Effective Change Management

In the last post, I wrote about lessons from RFID tech implementation in the supply chain and their relevance when implementing AI technologies. I advocated for a people-first approach, which leading organizations like McKinsey, BCG, and TDWI endorse. The organizations discuss diverse requirement gathering, fostering a culture that aligns with technology changes, the importance of employee engagement, and everything in between

🥊Implementation Plan and Mike Tyson

The reality of implementing new technologies in any organization can often echo Mike Tyson's words: "Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth." Changes in staff roles, promotions, and departures can disrupt the best-laid plans, making technology implementations challenging and ineffective.

🚀 Measuring Success

How do executives measure the Success of technology implementation? For SCM, it could be measuring KPIs like forecast accuracy, inventory turnover, etc., using the IMPLEMENTED solution. Not improvement, just getting general insights.

An ability for the user to quickly engage and tell a story from the solution. 

🥇 Introducing Story-First Approach

Given the limitations of change management plans, we need something TANGIBLE to work in all situations. "What can be done to make the user look good in front of their manager?" this is probably the fastest way to improve engagement. 

A "Story-First" approach to technological implementation requires considering how the end user can quickly present a story from the implemented solution. The "Story-first" approach helps promptly engage the user with the solution and understand the solution innately.

⬆ Job Elevation, NOT Job Elimination

We need solutions that aggregate outputs from our implementation, measure, and help users tell a story during and immediately after implementation. The story will elevate the end user and improve confidence in the implementation. 

Let's ask ourselves, "As Supply Chain Technologists, what tools can I provide my users to help them use my implementation more easily and effectively?"