The rapid advancement of AI presents remarkable opportunities and challenges for organisations in terms of how they can finetune their processes, boost productivity and improve their margins. But it’s not as straightforward as just implementing a solution – AI requires substantial changes in technology, processes, and a new way of working for employees. Change management is key to its success.
For firms embarking on a transformative AI programme, focusing on the human aspect – building trust, fostering enthusiasm, minimising resistance and helping employees adapt to new ways of working – is crucial. When introducing AI, these factors become even more important. Employees often think AI will threaten their jobs , or they might have concerns around data security. Or some rely too heavily on AI when they shouldn’t – they can overlook inaccuracies it might produce.
As with any new technology, using a robust change management and leadership approach is key to its efficacy. This usually involves creating a structured framework that moves from awareness to acceptance, and ultimately, commitment to the change and adoption of new ways of working.
What are the key AI implementation change management steps?
For businesses adopting AI, launching an organisation-wide awareness campaign, designed to inspire and educate is a great first step, as it lays a solid foundation for the transformation. This should include a clear and compelling narrative that explains the benefits of AI and the alignment with strategic objectives to ensure employees feel included in the journey.
Training sessions and workshops
Organising interventions like training sessions and workshops helps create support and acceptance of AI. By setting out the case for AI and explaining it in terms people understand, businesses can help employees feel more comfortable and confident in using the tools.
Be upfront with their concerns
Addressing people’s concerns about job security, privacy, and ethics is crucial. People are generally worried about the changes it could have on society, so fronting up to these concerns, genuinely listening and then giving a balanced and transparent view of what AI can and cannot achieve creates an environment of trust and collaboration. This will help to ensure employees feel secure and informed about the future.
Showing practical examples of AI in action
A key success factor for the adoption of AI is showcasing practical examples of applications and celebrating early successes. Shifting the narrative from a top-down technology push to an employee-driven pull, gives employees a sense of ownership and also helps identify potential use cases across different departments.
Of course, the change management benefits to AI are significant. Targeted interventions will create awareness and understanding of the AI solution and ultimately improve employee engagement and buy in. Using educational initiatives can neutralise resistance and foster a culture of awareness and collaboration – winning around detractors will be key to the success of an AI implementation. And increased understanding of the AI solution and its benefits, will help to increase adoption of solutions.
Successfully implementing AI isn’t just about deploying the right technology – it’s about ensuring employees are on board. A strategic and people-centred approach is essential. With widespread awareness, understanding and acceptance, organisations can realise the full potential of AI, turning its promise into results.
If you would like to speak to Valcon about the change management element of AI implementations, please contact: Lieke van Kleffens at [email protected] or Tamarah Verhoog at [email protected].
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