TFC #35: A Leaders Role In Software Adoption

Software has become an integral part of every industry, including cabinetmaking. Mastering your software is no longer just a luxury; it has become a necessity for running a successful business.

I was recently on a podcast with Jacob Edmond from Duckworks. We had a great conversation about software and technology in the millwork industry.

You can check it out here: Watch/listen to podcast

Toward the end of that podcast, Jacob asked me what I anticipate changing in the millwork industry over the next 5-10 years.

The last several years have been a machinery and technology boom and there has been a tremendous amount of great additions to the industry.

I predict the next 5-10 years will be all about software in two ways.

First, it will become increasingly critical to master your software to be able to utilize the best technology and machinery.

Secondly, the word “integrations” will be key. The people who find ways to make their data talk to all their different software solutions will do well.

A Leaders Role In Software Adoption

Here is my advice for the person who isn’t sure how to get their team excited about software adoption.

Articulate the Vision

Clearly articulate how the software aligns with the shop’s long-term vision and strategic goals. Illustrate the positive impact it can have on operations, efficiency, and the achievement of key objectives.

Don’t give any room for your team to get discouraged by “another thing” they have to do.

Show Your Commitment

Showcase unwavering commitment to the software adoption process. Demonstrate personal buy-in by actively engaging with the software, attending training sessions, and participating in discussions about its benefits.

This doesn’t mean you have to spend hours in the software every day, you have plenty of other responsibilities. However, if you’re trying to launch a new solution, it’s important that the team sees that you are committed and engaged.

Trust Your Team

Be willing to allow your team (your best people for this task) plenty of time to learn and successfully implement the software. Recognize that software is an ongoing project and give them time each week to spend on improving or researching ways to become more efficient and successful with the software.

I’ve seen plenty of examples of shop owners who were disappointed because they spend thousands of dollars on software and it’s not magically “doing the work” for them.

What they fail to realize is, that the team is the heartbeat of success. While software serves as a powerful tool, it's the collective skills, dedication, and collaboration of team members that truly drive achievement.

The software is a facilitator, an enabler—empowering talented individuals to create, innovate, and excel.

Don’t hold back your team by loading their plate with so many responsibilities that they don’t have time to be creative and find better ways of utilizing the software.

Address Resistance Promptly

Your team may not always share your vision.

It’s important to show your commitment to the software, however, this doesn’t have to mean firing anyone who isn’t on board.

Create an open space where people can talk about their concerns with the new solution and actively listen to their feedback.

Focus on understanding where their concern is coming from. It might be fear of change, concerns about increased workload, or uncertainty about the benefits of the new software.

Try to help the individual connect the dots to how this will help them personally by making tasks more efficient, less time-consuming, or contributing to their professional growth.

Be willing to admit if the resistance has grounds. Sometimes, as leaders, it’s easy to get excited about new “shiny objects” and not visualize how they might negatively impact the current processes.

Tip: Identify opportunities for small wins or quick wins that demonstrate the positive impact of the software. This helps shift the narrative from resistance to success, building confidence and enthusiasm among the team.

Encourage Continuous Learning

Cultivate a workplace culture that values learning and growth. Emphasize that learning is a continuous journey and not just a one-time event.

Promote the idea that everyone, regardless of their current proficiency, can benefit from ongoing education.

Provide easy access to a variety of training resources. This might include online courses, webinars, tutorials, and documentation related to the software. Ensure that team members have the tools they need to expand their knowledge at their own pace.

Encourage mentorship and peer learning within the team. Establish a mentorship program where experienced team members can guide those who are less familiar with the software. Peer learning not only strengthens team bonds but also enhances knowledge transfer.

Dedicate time and resources specifically for learning. This could involve setting aside regular "learning hours" during work hours or providing a budget for team members to attend external workshops, conferences, or other online training.

Encouraging continuous learning is not just about adapting to a specific software tool; it's about fostering a mindset of curiosity, adaptability, and resilience.

By investing in ongoing learning opportunities, leaders contribute to the overall growth and adaptability of the team, positioning them for sustained success in a rapidly changing technological landscape.

I wrote a similar article a couple of months ago about how education drives success that you can check out if you want to read more.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the landscape of the cabinet industry is undergoing a transformative shift where the mastery of software is not just a luxury but an absolute necessity for running a successful business.

My advice for those seeking to inspire their teams towards software adoption is centered on key principles.

• Articulate the vision clearly, aligning the software with the long-term goals of the shop.

• Showcase unwavering commitment, demonstrating personal engagement with the software.

• Trust your team, allowing them the time and space needed for learning and successful implementation.

• Actively listen to concerns and focus on understanding the root of resistance.

• Encourage continuous learning by fostering a culture that values ongoing education.

Set your shop up for success by nurturing a team culture that is not just about adapting to software tools but rather, about nurturing a mindset of curiosity and resilience.

The people who do that well will have no problem staying ahead of the curve with ever-changing technologies and software.

What do you think the next 5-10 years will hold for your shop?

Are you actively planning and researching how you will adapt?

Thanks for reading.

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I’m always open to replies and I very much enjoy hearing from you.