We understand: technology can be overwhelming, especially while implementing a new technology system in your club. Not only do you have to make sure the system actually works for your needs, but you also have to train all employees on how to use it. This is why we recommend taking small steps that help you realize how technology can significantly increase efficiency, profitability, and security.
Many venues see success with the small-step approach. In fact, it oftentimes allows you and your staff to focus more on your customers and less on back-end technological issues. Below are 5 tips to help you succeed when switching to a new technology system.
1. Understand what you want to get out of your new system
It’s critical to know what your goals and expectations are from a system. Without having these defined in the beginning, you have no idea how well the system is working. Perhaps you want to increase the speed of the night, discover insights about your guests, understand how your club and employees are performing, or even generate more pre-sale revenue. All of this is possible with technology. The more you know about why you want to go down the route, the better technology partner you’ll find and the easier time you’ll have in getting staff buy-in.
2. Find the right partner
The best thing you can do is find a company who will act as a true partner in making your club more profitable. They should fully understand your club’s operations and strategies to provide the best solution to your needs. Also consider using a system that has multiple solutions on one platform. Not only does this reduce the number of vendors you have to work with on a daily basis, but also better integrates data about your club’s performance.
3. Start small
The reason technology, or any new system for that matter, seems overwhelming is because people think of it as one big overhaul rather than a series of small steps. Adopting technology is a marathon, not a race. Pick the technology solutions that you absolutely need today and blend it into your current operations. Once you get the hang of the new features you added, you’ll feel more comfortable about what technology can do for your venue and will be ready to add more necessary features.
4. Get staff on board
Staff rarely like disruptions in their work routine, so make sure to onboard them before the new system takes over. It’s best to get all staff members together who will be interacting with the new software to introduce the system, show them how it works, and answer any questions they may have. It may also be beneficial to bring in the company with whom you’re partnering to clarify any points or walk through the system. The more in-tune they are with working with the system, the better the system will work for you.
5. Show continuous support
Support must come from the top. If you don’t believe in the system, why should your employees? Employees buy into new processes and are more likely to ask for any needed help when upper management shows a level of investment in the product. This ensures your club runs like a well-oiled machine and sees better results.
Whitney Johnson is the global director of marketing at BookBottles. Contact her at whitney.johnson@bookbottles.com.
