Time and again, those in the field of enterprise technology are discovering that the biggest barriers to implementing technological advances are the attitudes of those in IT. Below are four examples of barriers to technology transformations, and ways IT can learn to embrace them.

The global marketplace

Any major technology shift, such as from region-based computing systems to global networks, is sure to run into some glitches. One way for organizations to ease the transition is to reach out to employees for feedback on the transformation’s likely affect on end-to-end operations. This provides more data for critical decisions, and gives staff a chance to provide context.

It’s important from a human perspective that employees feel their contributions are valued. This aspect can get lost in translation with a complete system overhaul. Companies that rule with a velvet glove, rather than an iron fist, can encourage staff to embrace new technologies by stressing the benefits of globalization, such as eliminating service duplication. While there will always be internal changes in a shift of this magnitude, giving up regional control doesn’t have to be a bitter pill to swallow.

Domain changes

Whenever a domain changes, the challenge is to make sure every consequence is accounted for and adjusted. Files must be migrated, marketing materials modified, search results, company forms, and voice recordings must be updated to reflect the domain change.

To accomplish this goal, companies can build a multi-functional team from different sectors that is tasked with tracking down every last detail. From communication alerts sent to partners, vendors, and customers, to different methods of logging in to portals, each disparate step must be altered. Communication is essential, and creativity can be key to alerting users to new opportunities for an excellent customer experience.

The migration of legacy applications

In many circumstances, companies save costs when they migrate their legacy apps to a cloud-based platform. Concerns with this type of transition are hurdles like integrations and customizations, securing personally identifiable information, and maintaining security before, during and after the migration. All of these migratory phases can add days, or even weeks to the transition if the team fails to adapt to the new system. This challenge can be managed if the company factors in training time during the transition, during which employees can be rewarded and encouraged to embrace the change.

Building partnerships

Traditionally, IT departments have operated more as lone wolves rather than team players. If companies are willing to take advantage of the knowledge IT employees possess, the lone wolf relationship can change. IT employees hold valuable information about company data streams, security measures, integration points, and application support models. Turning to IT as partners, rather than gatekeepers, sends a message of inclusion.

Engaging employees can help transform a company culture near painlessly. When employees are shown that their knowledge and expertise is valued, appreciated, and needed, the battle is halfway won.