In this final post of the series on migrating from legacy network asset management solutions, we look at a critical component of any successful migration project: change management. As we have previously seen, a migration is not just about adopting new technology; it's a profound shift that affects the entire organisation. Today we briefly cover how a successful change management plan can make a difference in your migration journey.
7 steps to successful change management
1. Engage stakeholders
Change management is as much about managing people as it is about systems and technology. Start by identifying key individuals or groups that will be impacted by the change and involve them in the decision-making process. Clearly communicate the reasons for the migration, its benefits, and how it aligns with the organisation's goals. Solicit their input and address their concerns to build support for the change.
2. Communication plan
Develop a comprehensive communication plan that outlines how you will keep employees and stakeholders informed about the migration's progress and flag any potential challenges.
3. Training and skill development
The transition to an updated system may require your team to acquire new skills and adapt to a different way of working, making comprehensive training programs for employees essential. This not only empowers your staff to use the new system effectively but also reduces resistance to change. Offer ongoing support and resources to facilitate learning.
4. Establishing a cross-functional team
Assemble a cross-functional team with members from different departments. This team will be responsible for overseeing the migration process, addressing issues as they arise, and ensuring that the new solution aligns with the needs of various stakeholders.
5. Managing change resistance
Change is often met with resistance, and this is no exception. Recognise that some team members may be apprehensive about the switch, as it can disrupt established routines and processes. Address their concerns with open communication, training, and support. Encourage feedback and involve resistant individuals in the decision-making process when possible. Also, identify change champions within your organisation – individuals who are enthusiastic about the migration and can help drive adoption by promoting the benefits and assisting their peers.
6. Monitor and adapt
Once the new system is being piloted, monitor the transition closely and be prepared to address any issues promptly. Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to track the effectiveness of the system and ensure it meets the predefined goals and objectives.
7. Continuous improvement
Change management doesn't end with a successful migration. It's an ongoing process that requires continuous evaluation and improvement. Collect feedback from users and stakeholders to identify areas for enhancement to ensure processes remain efficient.Migrating from a legacy asset management system is a strategic move that can unlock new possibilities for your organisation. However, it's not a journey to be taken lightly. With careful planning, effective change management, and a commitment to quality, it can lead to improved network visibility, greater operational efficiency, and a competitive edge in the industry. Embrace the challenges of change management, engage stakeholders, and prioritise the seamless integration of technology and people to achieve a successful transition. Remember that this migration is not just about upgrading your systems; it's about transforming your network operations for the future.
This blog is based on our recent webinar ‘Migrating to a modern platform. What to consider? What to avoid?’ You can watch the session on-demand here.
Ericsson Network Engineer customer? Download our e-book ‘Modernizing your fiber network management strategy – The essential guide to moving from ENE’.
