Blogs
Lessons from ATIP Canada Officers: 4 Critical Lessons When Onboarding New ATIP Software
May 21, 2024 / #ATIP
At the OPEXUS Canadian Spring Roadshow recently, ATIP Canada leaders shared valuable insights into the procurement, implementation, and onboarding of ATIPXpress, their ATIP case management software. The ATIPXpress customer community shared with their colleagues the biggest lessons they’re learning as they ramp up the software program.
- Don’t Underestimate the Need for Dedicated Resources
One resounding piece of advice echoed throughout the day: don’t let software implementation become a side project.
Implementation of a tool that is going to impact every step of your ATIP process and every person on the team requires dedicated attention and expertise.
Depending on the size of the ATIP program, having at least one FTE fully dedicated as implementation project manager ensures clarity of focus and accountability.
- Make Friends with IT
Collaboration with IT is key after the software decision is finalized and implementation begins.
“Make friends with your IT department early on,” one participant said. “As they play a crucial role in aligning business needs with technical capabilities.”
Moreover, migration between legacy systems and ATIPXpress, demands a strong partnership with the IT team to navigate the differences seamlessly.
- Look to Your Peers to Help Plan Ahead, Anticipate Challenges
Success in software implementation and adoption hinges on meticulous planning and foresight. Documenting every step of the process, from meetings to decisions, serves as a valuable knowledge base and reference point.
Your POC, your contact(s) in IT, and anyone else on the implementation team should plan ahead for the Authorization to Operate (ATO) and anticipate potential challenges, such as SQL compatibility issues or unexpected system glitches.
Remember, even if the software appears straightforward, navigating government processes can be complex and unpredictable. A commitment to transparency, realistic timelines, and resource allocation is essential for steering clear of pitfalls.
The ATIPXpress user community is a great resource to learn from peers who have already been or are going through the process of migrating to ATIPXpress – don’t underestimate the value that community can provide!
- Neglecting Change Management
Transitioning to new software is more than just a technical switch; it’s a cultural shift.
Change management emerges as a significant challenge. Teams accustomed to legacy systems may find themselves on autopilot, resistant to change.
Effective communication, training, and ongoing support are paramount.
Empower your teams by showcasing the benefits of the new software. Emails from the POC should be frequent, updating the team about timelines, roadblocks, learning opportunities, and opportunities to get more involved in the implementation process.
The goal during implementation is to help foster an environment of continuous feedback and adaptation.
Once the software is approaching its “go live” date, the work of your POC doesn’t go away – in fact it should become more robust as you look to facilitate ongoing ways for users to share ideas, frustrations, and best practices to improve the ATIP process and the ATIP software.
The road to successful software onboarding in your ATIP Canada program requires careful navigation and proactive measures. By avoiding these four common mistakes you can pave the way for a smoother transition and ensure the success of your project. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. Rely on your community, leverage lessons learned, and stay committed to your vision of a more efficient and effective ATIP program.
