Engaging your locations effectively during openings and implementations is critical to ensuring a smooth and successful process. Here are five strategies to drive engagement and enhance your project's success.
Clear communication is the cornerstone of any successful implementation. When providing instructions to your locations, ensure that the tasks are articulated with enough detail. This involves not just the "what" but also the "why."
Example: Instead of simply stating, "Complete attached POS Guide," explain, "Complete attached POS Guide to POS installer has the information to ensure menu completeness and accurate pricing after cutover to new system."
Tailor the tasks to the specific needs and capabilities of each location. Not every task will be relevant to every location, and overloading them with unnecessary tasks can lead to disengagement and frustration.
Example: If a location does not have a restaurant, there's no need to include tasks related to kitchen setup in their checklist. In our app, we would recommend a base list that all locations have and then have separate lists for optional items. When a location or implementation is created, these lists can be merged appropriately so a location only sees what applies to them.
Monitor progress regularly and follow up early when a location or responsible person falls behind. Establish a clear escalation process to address issues promptly. The most effective companies and brands we work with follow up with lagging locations very early to ensure they get back on track.
Example: If a location misses a deadline, a gentle reminder can be sent initially, followed by a more formal escalation if the issue persists. Having dashboards showing all locations and status and reports that can be pulled or emailed on regular basis are key to staying on top of multiple units or locations.
Incorporate elements of gamification and friendly competition to motivate and engage your teams. Leaderboards, rewards, and public recognition can significantly boost morale and productivity.
Example: Implement a leaderboard that tracks the progress of different locations and rewards the top performers with incentives such as gift cards or extra time off.
Proper training and change management are crucial at the introduction of any new system or implementation. This also means letting the team know the “why” of the new system to ensure you gain buy-in. Ensure that your teams are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed and build excitement around the change.
Example: Offer comprehensive training sessions, provide clear direction, and offer ongoing support through a dedicated help desk or support team.
Driving location engagement in openings and implementations doesn't have to be daunting. By communicating clearly, tailoring tasks, following up effectively, making the process enjoyable, and providing solid training, you can ensure a successful and smooth implementation process.
Visit getpacer.com to learn more about how Pacer can help you achieve operational excellence in your openings and implementations. Click here to check out our Blog: Top 10 Things A Location Manager Wants In and Opening Tool.