1. SHOUT ABOUT IT!

The most important step in getting patrons to engage with new technology is making sure they know about it. It is vital to utilise all your channels of communication to let people know about your new solutions, and the ways it will directly benefit them, is vital to increasing adoption rates amongst your users.

Get the news out there and take care to share across all relevant platforms, including everything from regular posting on your social media accounts to emailing your users to tell them about it, will help the news reach your audience as widely as possible. A blog announcing your new solution, along with the key features and improvements, is also a great way to create a sense of excitement amongst your patrons.

Plus, don’t forget people power! Something as simple as word of mouth can massively raise awareness!

2. MAKE IT EASY TO GET STARTED

It may sound simple, but whatever you’re promoting, whether it’s the capabilities of a new app, a new website or even a new way of doing something, make it as easy as possible for your patrons to start using your new solution.

At D-Tech, we have recently supported libraries launching the newest version of appIT – the library app. We are providing posters including an easy-to-scan QR code to download the app and all the information they need to log on, start managing their library account and checking out books using their smartphone or device.

By displaying or distributing assets and highlighting the new capabilities of recently installed technology, having staff helping people get started, running videos on any screens, and sending out start links and instructions via email and social media, you can reduce the number of fall-off points for your users on their path to adoption.

3. SHOW YOUR PATRONS HOW TO USE IT

DEMO, DEMO, DEMO!

Demonstrating your technology and its capabilities is the best way to showcase your exciting technology. Whether in person or via video chat and helpful ‘How to Videos’. These demos can be valuable assets to your organisation and your users, giving you an opportunity to dive deep into the new and exciting capabilities and show your patrons what is on offer.

4. BE PATIENT, AND KEEP ENCOURAGING

Changing behaviours isn’t an overnight thing! It can take time to adopt a new culture and attitude, especially when it comes to technology.

The ‘Rule of Seven’ is regular reference point in the world of marketing, the suggestion being that a customer will interact with you an average of seven times before acting. While the exact number will vary depending on a variety of factors, the principle remains – you will likely have to communicate several times with a patron before they will start using your new technology. So, don’t give up hope! Keep sharing and highlighting the benefits of your new solutions.

Interactions can be anything from a case study, social media post, or even a digital ad. To maximise your reach, try to connect with patrons via different formats over an extended period. Sharing testimonials or case studies is a particularly great tool to encourage new users to give it a try, so keep an eye for happy users and find out if they are happy to share their experiences!

5. MEASURE SUCCESS

Finally, you need to know if your process is working. Utilising any usage data or analytics you have available to monitor how, and how often, your technologies are being used by customers.

Keep a lookout for customer feedback on your socials that might give you an insight into how your clients interact with technology. This could generate ideas for things you may want to use to further highlight the capabilities of your new solution. Or you might need to change your focus and shout about different aspects and capabilities.