You're navigating the automation scaling journey. How can you keep stakeholders' expectations in check?

1 Set Goals

Clear goal-setting is foundational in keeping expectations realistic. Establish what process automation can achieve in specific timeframes, and communicate these objectives to stakeholders. This isn't about underpromising; it's about providing a roadmap with milestones that are ambitious yet attainable. When stakeholders understand what to expect and when, they're more likely to remain supportive when faced with the complexities of scaling automation.

2 Educate Thoroughly

Education goes beyond initial introductions to process automation. As you scale, continuously inform stakeholders about the capabilities and limitations of the technology. This includes discussing how automation integrates with existing systems and the need for human oversight. A well-informed stakeholder is a valuable ally who can set realistic expectations within their teams and help facilitate a smoother scaling process.

3 Monitor Progress

Regular progress updates are vital to maintain stakeholder confidence. Use clear metrics to demonstrate how automation is improving efficiency or accuracy, without overhyping the results. These updates serve as reality checks and opportunities to adjust expectations based on actual performance. They also help stakeholders understand the scaling journey as an evolving process with ups and downs.

4 Address Concerns

No journey is without its bumps, and automation scaling is no exception. Proactively address stakeholder concerns by being transparent about challenges and setbacks. This approach fosters trust and reinforces the idea that while automation offers significant benefits, it's not a silver bullet. By managing concerns effectively, you prevent unrealistic expectations from taking root.

5 Foster Collaboration

Encourage stakeholders to be part of the automation journey by fostering collaboration. When they contribute to decision-making and problem-solving, they gain a deeper understanding of the intricacies involved. This collaborative environment helps align their expectations with the realities of process automation, making them more invested in the project's success.

6 Adjust Strategies

Be prepared to adjust your automation strategy based on stakeholder feedback and changing circumstances. This flexibility shows that you're responsive to the needs of the business and committed to finding the best path forward. It also keeps stakeholder expectations dynamic, allowing them to evolve with the project rather than becoming fixed and potentially unrealistic.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?