I really enjoyed watching the 2014 Winter Olympics. As usual, the Games were filled with heart-warming stories. Over the next few posts, I will share some lessons we the Church can learn from these Olympics.
Going into these Olympics, the USA speedskating team was favored to win several medals. They even debuted new, high-tech skating suits that were expected to give the USA skaters an edge over the competition. From the reports I can find, their suits had been privately tested but had not been battle tested in competitions.
[featured-image single-newwindow=”false”]Photo Credit: socks57 via Compfight cc Note: Suit pictured is not one used in 2014 Olympics.[/featured-image]
What happened next provides the Church with some lessons about implementing technology.
Normally very good at speedskating, the USA team surprisingly could not keep up with other Olympic skaters. Early in the Olympics some of the skaters, commentators, fans, and observers began blaming the poor results on the new high-tech suits. It is important to note that some of the skaters would not blame the suits.
After modifying the new suits did not produce better results, some skaters returned to wearing older suits in which they had worn earlier in the speedskating season. The results were no better. Scott Blackmun, CEO of the U.S. Olympic Committee, spoke at a press conference where he stated the suits were not to blame. (Source npr.org) Notice that the leader came out and clearly stated that the technology was not the problem. This seems like a small detail. However, the willingness of people to accept any further technology tools hinges on this critical point. Otherwise they will all but doom future technology projects to failure before the project even begins.
Technology and Church
Since we live in the digital culture, it is natural to think technological tools can solve any issue. However, technology cannot solve organizational issues. Individuals and organizations look for the latest technological tool to solve their issues. Then, if the “technology fails” or there is no perceived improvement, we immediately blame the technology.
6 Key Steps To Successful Technology Implementations
1. Honestly answer the following question: Can the issue be solved with new technology or is this an issue with the culture of the organization?
2. Run the project through the Decision Filter?
3. Follow the proper technology evaluation process:
- Clearly define the needs.
- Research and find the software solution(s) that best meet those needs.
- Now, determine what hardware is required to run this software.
4. Ensure the implementation process includes thorough training as well as ongoing training opportunities.
5. Provide the resources for a successful implementation. Successful implementations are fueled by ample amounts of people, time, and money.
6. Don’t overload the organization. Implementations take time and involve change. People need time to absorb change, learn the technology, and fully embrace the technology into their daily workflow. Do not implement a large project during the busiest season for your church.
Conclusion
When implementing technology be sure to follow these 6 key steps. If there is an issue and technology is at fault, admit it and fix it. If an issue arises that is not due to the technology, clearly admit that too. Then find the real issue and fix it.
[reminder]What are some possible issues for which technology becomes the scapegoat? What suggestions do you have to add to the list for successfully implementing technology?[/reminder]