4 Don’ts of All #EdTech Implementations
Mar. 26, 2013 at 09:00 AM | By Katie Doviak | Comment Count
You’ve been there before, implementation D-day. An occasion when everything can go right but your instincts tell you that everything will most likely go wrong, very wrong.
It’s no secret, implementing new processes, systems, and technology is never easy. Implementation means change and change could bring your course planning, college advising, marketing campaigns, application processing, or student communications to a screeching halt. But, regardless of how daunting ed tech can seem, there are ways school districts and post-secondary institutions can optimize implementation to result in improved efficiencies, increased effectiveness, and, ultimately, impact student outcomes.
4 Don’ts of All #EdTech Implementations
Don’t Bite Off More Than Your School Can Chew
All successful projects have a comprehensive plan-of-action. You wouldn’t start putting something together by going to the last page of the directions. Just like constructing a piece of furniture from Ikea, start with step one. Creating a strong base for your implementation will allow you to build a sturdy infrastructure.
Don’t Be a Lone Wolf
Don’t believe for a second that you can do this on your own. Ask for help internally from your team and exchange ideas and success stories with peers. Most institutions are doing something and this is a community that is open to sharing. Take advantage. You’ll be surprised by where you can find help or inventive approaches to achieving results.
Don’t Set Unrealistic Expectations For Success
Work short term but think long term. Ask yourself, “What are my goals today, tomorrow, a year from now, five years from now?” Technology is always changing and so should your use of it. Schools and institutions must realize that there will definitely be hurdles along the way. But don’t fret; remember there is no limit to the amount of times you can refocus or set goals that will bring you one step closer to a successful implementation.
Don’t Do All the Work By Yourself
Processes today are similar to a boat with a leak. You can continue down the river by bailing out the water or you can stop for a day and patch the leak. If you choose the latter, you’ll notice you will pick up speed once you’re back in the water. Finding a great vendor works much in the same way. Keep in mind that having a vendor that offers the right training and onboarding options can be just as important as selecting the best product.
What other Don’ts would you add?
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