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The most important aspect to successful implementations is a communication plan. We’ve provided you with some tips on what to consider when building out your communication plan. You can also access our communication toolkit at the end of this article.
1. Communicate Early and Often
It’s best not to wait till the last minute to email your team about the new project management tool that is being rolled out next week. Send out communication early, so that your team has plenty of time to process the change. As with all change initiatives, you may experience some resistance. Early communication gives you time to connect with, and prepare for, those who have concerns. In your communication plan, you should also build in frequent updates. Emails slip through the cracks, people miss meetings, and we’re just busy! Sometimes we need to hear the message a few times before we realize what is being asked of us. Communicating often, leading up to your LiquidPlanner Go-Live, will ensure that the message is heard.
2. Send Communications from the Right People
Consider who should be the “messenger” for your various communications. Change management studies have shown that having the initial message come from the executive sponsor lends credibility to the initiative and helps to inspire the team. It’s important that the executive sponsor conveys the “why LiquidPlanner?” in this initial message, to underscore the benefit of change for the organization. It is ideal for continued communications to be delivered by front-line managers or leaders. Since they have the closest relationship, their team members may be more receptive to information shared. These are also great opportunities to gather feedback and prepare to address concerns before going live.
3. Identify your Target Go-Live and Work Backwards
With your Success Team, identify a target Go-Live date to have your team switch over and begin using LiquidPlanner. Be realistic about the amount of time you’ll need to configure the workspace and have projects built out. To maintain momentum, the Go-Live date should happen immediately after your LiquidPlanner team training. Once you have your Go-Live date set, work your communication plan backwards from that date.
4. Communication Doesn’t Stop After Go-Live
Plan for meetings, emails, and other communications you’ll need to schedule after Go-Live. Your team will have more questions on how to use LiquidPlanner properly after Go-Live, so make sure you’re prepared to engage them with the right communication channels.
To help get you started, we’ve provided a link to our sample Communication Plan, which includes some sample email templates you can use for messaging.–