At the Softworld HR and Payroll 2003 event, Microsoft’s Jennifer Griffin, Marketing Director, HR and Payroll gave a presentation about how achieving buy-in from employees throughout the organisation around e-HR is vital in order for the implementation of a new system to succeed. Here, we give a brief summary of the key points covered by the presentation.
Putting in place an HR system can achieve benefits but whether they are achieved will depend on a number of factors. It’s important to understand the needs of the different audiences involved and to communicate the benefits of the system to them. Getting buy-in is important because it raises the profile of the project, allows those involved to justify the need for funds quicker and easier, and raises credibility for both the project and those involved. There is also a benefit to the organisation in terms of disseminating best practice and showing a return on investment.
Achieving successful buy-in involves the following:
Tips from a customer – it’s important to identify champions and get them on your side, don’t forget HR, involve IT, anticipate reactions and don’t make assumptions.
