New System for our College
I might of mentioned this briefly in prior posts but I figure I make a separate one. A big change is coming to our college and it's going to effect our office in a huge way. In July the new system that the University bought for all of it's colleges (our college is part of it) will be implemented for us. It's a completely different system, it's complicated, it's like taking two steps forward and three steps back and the colleges that have it are not having a good time with it. It does have some advantages to it I have to admit but it's mostly negatives and numerous of adjustments to one's work flow. I'm not looking forward to this at all. I did try playing around with the system a few times in a "sandbox" environment but I just don't get it. The training the college is suppose to offer is extremely minimial, we might have to muddle through this way just like the other colleges. The college is also planning big changes to Registration for the Fall semester which will effect everyone's work. Also, another difficult thing is the preparation. Lots of bio-cleanup, checking and testing.
I don't know how to get out of this one. I thought the change to the system we have now was bad but this looks like it's going to be worse.
An Opportunity?
This year we have had a new specialist computer system installed, which we have had to load master data to, configure reports, test and sign-off on. Like your system, some bits are better than the old system, and some seem a little primitive. I spoke up, and for my pains got added to the project team - but at least then I was able to find problems and help fix them (and I'm no IT techie).
Here's the challenge: As Aspies we prefer routine rather than change, but this thing is going to be implemented anyway. So how can I be part of the solution rather than part of the problem? All of us can grumble, but what can we do that will help improve things?
I don't know your particular strengths, but I take it that while you're comfortable using a computer you're not a whizz with them. You've mentioned the workflow - if that concerns you, perhaps you've got an untapped ability to understand workflows? Can you see a way to adjust the workflow so that it will run more smoothly? Would your manager or supervisor be open to you proposing some improvements?
The other thing is that it sounds like your team needs at least one proper training session. In a well-run implementation one or two people on your staff who do 'get it' should be designated as super-users and given extra training so that they can help train others. Could you be one of those people? Even though you may struggle to 'get it' at first, once you do get it you will understand the difficulties that other people are facing and you will be a much better teacher because of that.
I've tried two examples at random, and am probably well off target, because only you know what your particular strengths and limitations are. If you can't do anything about the software, then what about the Registration? The thing is, most bosses are pleased to have people in their teams who will think about the job and make constructive suggestions. Hope you have one of those. All the best.
Proactivity
Firstly, well done for volunteering to be partof the project!
It is so easy with As to sit back and not push oneself forward, but it is something that we all need to do - no-one else will do it for us.
By being proactive this way you are demonstrating initiative, sending the signal that you want to be inclusive/included in things and also positively contributing towards business performance.
Essential Preparation
I would be very wary of this.
A few years ago I got put on a very high-profile project with outside consultants.
Part of my work required me to use an Apple Mac which I had never done before. Needless to say this, combined with the pressure of the work itself, became VERY stressful.
Start to use it as much as possible informally. If possible, locate someone who is computer literate/able to use it - if you can trust them of course - and work alongside them so they can show you how it works.
Also...flag up the problem to your Line Manager now and tell them that you do not feel comfortable at the moment.
You are entitled to do this and it will be something to refer back to if you experience difficulties later.
Good luck!
Two Months with New System
About two or three years ago I bought a Imac to replace my 9 year old Dell computer at the time for my home. It did take time (still does) to get use to the differences and the different type of operating system but I think at this point I'm doing okay with it.
Getting back to the topic at hand, we have had this system for over two months now. It's still a very difficult road but we are learning how to use it and how to do our jobs with it. We (I especially) are not too happy with some of the features and how it now takes more steps to do certain things.
We have been talking to other colleges in our university who have the system for support. They do help to some extent but even they are still having issues with it.
Changing Routines
The first thing that struck me when I read this article was: the benefit of changing our routines.
I am sure that you are more than capable of learning a new technology, its just the fear or something different that is acting as a disincentive.
The more I make basic changes to my routines the more I find that I am able to cope with change in other areas of my life - and at work.