Big Brother and Wireless Technology

We hear it all the time. Managers are hesitant to implement a technology tool that will streamline their operation because they don't want to feel like 'Big Brother'. The perception- real or imagined- that staff will be offended by new technology and the increased visibility can be a real impediment. If staff are unhappy about new technology they may refuse to use it. Unused technology is a waste of money.

So how do we fix this?

1. Focus on safety issues. Technology with GPS tracking has saved lives allowing first responders to reach injured workers more quickly. Some platforms and devices even have the ability to send alerts automatically if a worker becomes unresponsive.

2. Focus on the way this technology will be used to streamline processes. Get rid of paper! The days of keeping paper logs that get lost and damaged and not filed is over. How can that make your staff's life easier? Less trips to the office? Less stuff in the cabs of their vehicles?

3. Involve your staff in the testing process of any new technology platform. Proof of concept testing is vital before implementing any new program. Involve key individuals in that process and listen to their feedback. People embrace technology that makes sense and makes things easier.

4. Openly discuss with your staff why you're looking at a particular technology. What are the challenges you're trying to solve? How will you protect their privacy? Is this technology in alignment with your current policies? ( ie can they take vehicles home? How long are they allowed to idle? )

5. Discuss with your technology salesperson the data protections that are in place to protect worker data. Make sure your staff understands that data protection is a priority both for you and for any company you're partnering with.

Like many other things in our work life open communication is key. New technology is designed to fix work place challenges and make life easier for everyone. The goal of nay platform should never be to 'spy' on staff or to catch someone misbehaving. Making your goals and objectives clear and involving staff in the decision will go along way to having a successful rollout.