5 Steps to Approach Technology Transformation
Modernization can feel daunting, but in the fast-paced world MuRs, technological transformation is more important than ever.
Here are 5 key elements to consider before embarking on a technology transformation:
- Facilitate alignment
- Go from vision to strategy
- Avoid silver-bullet thinking
- Develop change management frameworks
- Pace transformation
Companies that struggle with transformation often aren’t aligned on the end vision and transformation process needed to achieve the desired goal. For any technology initiative, people are the most important agents of change – ensure you have the right support and buy-in from leaders before embarking on any comprehensive digital transformation.
Start at the corporate level to understand the broader vision and design your technology strategy to help achieve that vision and meet the data needs of the entire organization. And always consider the long-term implications of any changes you make. For example, if you’re considering investing in a new KMS system, you’ll want to make sure it works in all store formats and is scalable to meet the needs of your business as it grows.
Many restaurants seek the latest and greatest silver-bullet technology—the one KMS or digital tool capable of perfectly addressing all your needs at once. However, "best in class" for someone else doesn’t always mean best for you or your customers. A good strategic partner can help you evaluate your options and find the right fit for your organization.
Technology transformation is a significant undertaking, so it’s essential to manage this change effectively with your corporate team and team members at each restaurant location. That means communicating with employees regularly, providing training and support, and creating a culture of feedback and continuous improvement. The best change management frameworks use a data-driven approach – take time to identify meaningful indicators you can use to measure the effectiveness of your change management tactics.
Transformation is ongoing and cyclical. With any change, it's helpful to start small and build momentum over time. It’s fairly simple to achieve quick wins, but sustainable wins require consistent effort and patience.