Many transport businesses are failing to keep their workforce at the heart of their digital transformations, leading to employee dissatisfaction and hindering the success of digitalisation initiatives, new research has found.
Only 37% of the sector’s employees react positively to the implementation of new technology, and just 8% appreciate the benefits of new technologies, according to the Connected Enterprise report, produced by digital transformation specialist Nexer in partnership with applied futurist Tom Cheesewright.
The report also shows that 29% of transport businesses find their employees are reluctant to embrace new technologies, and 17% of business leaders would like to implement more technology but worry that they will face resistance from employees.
The research suggests that a lack of adequate consultation and education prior to the implementation of new business technologies may be behind employees’ negative reactions.
Tellingly, less than a third (29%) of businesses in the transport industry said that their workforce finds it easy to learn how to use new technologies, while 57% said that some or many of their employees find it a struggle.
Colin Crow, managing director of Nexer, commented: “Only when used correctly and consistently can digital solutions make a tangible difference to business operations and outcomes.
“So while it’s vital to get the C-Suite on board in order to secure funding for exciting new technology in the first place, it’s equally as important that those who will be using the technology day-to-day are convinced of its benefits.
“In order to ensure optimum return on investment, businesses should always take a collaborative approach, explaining to employees the reasons behind any new digital technologies and providing as much support as needed for them to feel comfortable using them.”
According to the research, only 9% of transport businesses’ employees tell them that business technology improves their day-to-day life. Furthermore, 17% said that they regularly receive complaints from employees following the implementation of new technology.
Colin continued: “It’s important to bear in mind that while digital transformation makes companies more profitable, enhances the customer experience and enables them to keep up with competitors, it should also always improve the employee experience.
“If a new technology will not ultimately make the daily responsibilities of employees simpler or more efficient – following the appropriate training – then it is not the right technology for that business, and will likely not be a success in the long term.”
About Nexer
Nexer is a leading digital transformation expert, specialising in Microsoft Dynamics. It advises, implements, develops, and manages Microsoft Dynamics applications, alongside other technologies, to help clients strengthen their market position, grow revenue, and improve productivity.
Working with businesses in the manufacturing, field service, wholesale distribution, construction, retail and fashion industries, its leading product lines include Microsoft Dynamics 365, Internet of Things, AI, Business Intelligence, Connected Field Service, the Smart Office and Smart Retail.
Nexer has been operating successfully since 2008 and was established in the UK in 2019. It is part of the Nexer Group (formerly Sigma IT) – a Swedish IT Services firm with over 5,000 employees across the globe. The business is able to leverage its relationship with the group in Sweden and worldwide to add significant and unique value to its customers. www.sigmadynamics.co.uk.
