What is an implementation consultant, what do they do and why do I need one? Implementation consulting is a field in which consultants assist companies or departments with the implementation of new software or technology.
Although it is dependant upon the nature of their job, implementation consultants are often highly mobile, moving from client to client and assisting with different projects.
It is also possible that the consultant would be hired to focus on only the implementation of technology within his or her own company. Regardless, implementation consultants generally have certain tasks they must complete, wherever they are.
1. Install the software or hardware
This is the majority of an implementation consultant’s job. They may be tasked with installing software on existing equipment, or they may have the much more daunting task of installing completely new hardware and subsequently completing all necessary setup, installation, and updates required in order to successfully implement the software the company wishes to use.
This part of the job includes all aspects of physically preparing, installing and functionally running the software in question. This can include, but is not limited to, physically wiring the system into place, downloading the required programs, and testing to ensure everything is running as it should.
2. Train the employees
Implementation consultants are also charged with training all employees to properly and efficiently use the new technology or program that has been installed. It may be the most incredible program in the world, but it will be absolutely useless if employees are unable to use it.
Without proper training, employees will likely try to do things the way it was done before, make errors because they don’t understand how to properly use the software, and may feel overwhelmed at the daunting task of trying to understand a foreign and abstract concept.
3. Stay in the know
An implementation consultant’s job is also just to keep up with changes and updates in software so that they can then relay any important changes or new features to the client. Technology is only as good as its user, so implementation consultants need to be experts in order to help provide clients with the best experience possible, and to help them use the software or hardware to the best of its abilities.
It is also a matter of accommodating to the needs of the client. It is crucial that clients be able to take advantage of any feature that can improve their productivity.
4. Customize the software
To further cater to the client’s needs, implementation consultants may also be required to customize software. This can help make the software more user friendly for the client, and can ensure that it’s functions are in line with the company’s needs.
In this step, it is key that the implementation consultant understand the daily functions and needs of the company, and that they can really put themselves in the company’s shoes in order to present a fully functional, user-friendly, and productivity-boosting product.
5. Support after implementation
After installation, the implementation consultant will also be in charge of keeping the software running. Should there be any issues, bugs, or glitches with the program, or should the company’s employees need further training or assistance with the use of the software or hardware, the implementation consultant will need to assist with this.
This may include support by distance – where the company can reach out by telephone or electronically in order to get in contact with the consultant – or it may require the implementation consultant to return to the site in order to assist with in-person training or to fix hardware or software that is on the fritz.
