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PROJECT PERFECT Project Management Software Specialists in Project Infrastructure |
OverviewSetting up a performance management system can deliver tremendous results…In our first white paper, we covered
This white paper is about the technology component of performance management. There are many options in the market, all focusing on the common deliverables of setting and tracking goals, objectives and KPI’s (key performance indicators). What we would like to accomplish in this paper is how to approach using the technology. Before we get started in this area, let’s first get one common misconception out of the way. Software is part of the solution, it’s not the solution. It doesn’t make people change their work habits, but it sure helps manage the process. Given that software is an enabling tool; let’s talk about four key steps to assist you in being a success with performance management software: Technology and Performance Management:It’s a lot easier when powered by software Less is MoreThis is very important to understand. Our first step, when considering what information to address and track in a performance management tool like ManagePro or MProWeb, is simply this:
Identify and Respond to Process MismatchYou will be way ahead of the game if, before implementing a technology solution, you take a moment to assess whether its adoption will simply build on existing work practices or require new ones. Technology solutions are easier to implement when they support established practices. But what happens if using the software requires the user to do something they don’t currently? What if, in the pursuit of high performance, the implementation of technology is but a small part of a larger change effort? If this is the case, you have a process mismatch and will be using the software to drive major change in addition to setting up a performance management system. If that’s the case, recognize and resource it as such – because it’s going to take more time and effort. To drive change, you’ll need planning, resources, time and money. We probably don’t need to mention this, but as we mentioned above, change does not get implemented by installing software on someone’s PC. Change that requires new work habits requires lots of follow-up. It requires lots of practice and being held accountable to both practice the new process and deliver the new outcomes. Some suggest that you should roughly estimate resources for a technology enabled change process in the range of 10% for hardware, 20% for software and 70% for training and coaching. Establishing improved performance using new work habits seems to match the general literature on habit change. Experts suggest it takes practicing the new behaviour 21 days in a row before it becomes the new habit - otherwise the tendency is to revert back to the old behaviour. Make sure the Performance Management Software selection you make has the required basics. Lots of performance management tools have shared and unique feature sets. Make sure your selection has those feature sets that support the psychology of high performance. We’ve listed some of the more important ones you should consider. Performance Management Checklist
Being ‘Change Savvy’ when setting up a Software ImplementationIt has been estimated that 2/3’s of all complex technology solutions, such as CRM, ERP and Performance Management result in less than successful outcomes. Implementing a complex technology-enabled solution is a worthwhile, but significant challenge. Our Company - PST - provides a number of resources for planning a successful implementation, available at http://www.managepro.com/applicationresources.html, but for now, here are the final tips to keep you headed in the right direction:
The AuthorThe author of this series, Rodney Brim, is CEO of Performance Solutions Technology (PST). PST develops and assists organizations in deploying performance management software solutions, and presents these guidelines based upon our work with 1,000’s of companies to help ensure your success and avoid common myths in the pursuit of performance management. Performance Solutions Technology is found on the web at http://www.PerformanceSolutionsTech.com
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