Tips for successful tech integration (PD)

Tips for Successful Tech Integration (Hint: It’s all about PD!)

When reviewing new technology tools, keep in mind that they are just that--tools. Therefore, focus your attention and energy on the outcome. Ideally, new tools are selected because they serve a critical purpose in accomplishing excellent learning and teaching. If the new tool gets in the way of that overarching purpose, then the implementation will fail.

Here are seven things to consider about rolling out new tools:

Gain stakeholder buy-in: Get your staff onboard before purchasing a tool. This will help build the momentum required for successful implementation.

Don’t forget about IT buy-in: Engage your technology leaders in the conversation regarding any new technology before any decision is made to buy. Make sure the IT team understands how the new technology works and why it is being used.

Demand built-in PD: Ongoing, job-embedded PD is one of the best ways to guarantee success. Whether you’re considering a software application or a piece of hardware, it is imperative that the project management team arrange to train all staff involved, from the end users to the IT services team. Most vendors are more than willing to include training in the proposal because they have a stake in the success of the venture.

Train before roll-out: Make sure the new product or tool is installed on users’ computers before training so they can use it immediately. That way they will be more likely to internalize what they have learned and begin to integrate it into their regular practice.

Build a cadre of experts: A great way to provide technical support to your users is to train one subject matter expert (SME) per school building. But don’t select your most tech-savvy user for this position. Someone who has the ability to learn and is not afraid to try new things can often be the best advocate for a new program.

Consider the pitfalls early: Many great technology tools have problems that SMEs often overlook due to their lack of expertise with networking and technology infrastructure, setup, and maintenance.  Many great plans have failed because of this oversight. In the early strategic planning conversations, consider pitfalls and whether another option with equal educational outcomes would be better.

Train, train, train. Repeat: Plan to train and repeat training. Make it available in the beginning, throughout the early stages of implementation, and as long as you plan to use the tool, device or software. New staff will need training, other staff will need refresher training, and technology staff will need to upgrade their skills periodically.