Transforming thoughts on going digital

Digital phobia is a real phenomenon characterized by a discomfort or avoidance of technology and the digital era in general. More seriously known as technophobia or technofear, these digital-laden anxieties are more common than one might think.

Although the exact numbers are unknown, research suggests up to one-third of the general population is affected, and between 45 to 60% of those aged 45 to 60 years.

Why should this matter? Because in the maturing fastener industry, there’s a decent chance this might be you or someone in your organization reluctant to share their insecurities.

In the workplace, digital fears might include angst about learning and incorporating new computer programs, automated systems, or more advanced processes that integrate artificial intelligence or the Internet-of-things (the network of connected devices that share data). It’s also easy to rationalize such fears, neatly placing them under the umbrella of security or incompatibility concerns — after all, we’ve all heard horror stories about hacking and data breaches. And we’ve all likely experienced network delays or glitches with our smartphones or even the debit machines at our local grocery.

Truth be told, the biggest obstacle to safe and successful digital transformation is rarely the technology. It’s about supporting users to overcome their fear of change or reluctance to adopt new processes. This is worth considering when making a tech leap in the workplace because the bigger truth is that the digital era is only advancing.

As Paul Przyby of Optimas Solutions shares in the article on page 170, “Although there is something to be said for a legacy business, success is rarely granted to those who refuse to evolve. Optimizing routines and processes is particularly critical and easier in the digital era.”

So, how can you support your team or colleagues (and yourself) in this ever-expanding digital world? Unfortunately, no one solution will dissipate every worry, but there are a few steps to consider.

Acknowledge the fear. Expect it, speak it, and clarify that fear of uncertainty is normal. Learning anything new can be intimidating at first or there wouldn’t be a need to learn it. As Lonni Kieffer of SmartCert says in the profile on page 178, “Change is hard.” But that’s OK.

Prepare for disruption. Adopting new technologies and processes will inevitably disrupt the status quo — that’s the point. Digital transformations typically aim to reorganize systems in a new, streamlined manner. That means parting with the old ways, even if it’s uncomfortable for a period. Think process, not revolution. Terms such as digital revolution and the factory of the future can sound daunting. Ultimately, going digital should be about simplifying tasks…and getting there can be divided into small, attainable, and measurable goals.

Seek support and validation. Onboarding new software, automated systems, or new equipment should come with proper training and troubleshooting. Be patient and give yourself and others time to learn. Technology is a tool that, with the ideal features, should enhance and support a business and its employees. Use the digital revolution to your advantage.

Michelle Froese

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Filed Under: DIGITAL ISSUES • DESIGN WORLD

 

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