Overcoming Employee Objections and Hurdles When Onboarding Technology

Introducing new technology into a workplace can be resisted, especially in industries like restaurants, food service, retail, and manufacturing. Employees often have concerns about complexity, potential disruptions to their workflow, or fear of being replaced by automation. However, digital tools can enhance rather than hinder employees' roles when implemented correctly.

By addressing common objections and demonstrating the value of user-friendly solutions like trakr Counting, businesses can ensure a smooth transition while empowering employees with tools that save time and reduce frustration.

Understanding Common Employee Concerns

"I'm Not Tech-Savvy—This Will Be Too Complicated."

Many frontline restaurant, warehouse, and retail workers have used the same manual inventory methods for years. Learning a new system can feel overwhelming, leading to hesitation or resistance.

How to Overcome It:

• Choose technology that mimics familiar processes but improves efficiency. For example, trakr Counting turns a mobile device into a simple scanning tool like a camera.
• Offer hands-on training that is short, straightforward, and relevant to daily tasks.
• Provide ongoing support with easily accessible guides, video tutorials, or quick-reference sheets.

Real-World Example: A coffee shop chain implementing trakr Counting found that their management staff, initially hesitant about using an app, quickly adapted when they realized they only had to scan barcodes rather than manually write inventory counts. Within a week, the manager reported it was easier and faster than their old pen-and-paper method.

"This Will Take Too Long to Learn."

In fast-paced industries, time is money. Employees may worry that onboarding new technology will slow down their daily operations.

How to Overcome It:

• Emphasize that a quick learning curve is a priority—trakr Counting, for example, requires little training beyond picking up a phone and scanning.
• Implement a step-by-step onboarding process that gradually allows employees to integrate the tool into their routine.
• Assign tech champions—team members who adapt quickly and can help others learn the system.

Real-World Example: A manufacturing company introduced an inventory app to replace spreadsheets. Initially, the workers hesitated to use it, fearing it would be too complicated. After training sessions and a pilot period during which they could still use their old method alongside the new system, they found the app saved them time by eliminating the need for double entry. It also helped them know what they had on hand now and what they needed to reorder.

"Technology Will Replace My Job."

One of the employees' biggest fears about automation is that it will make their role obsolete.

How to Overcome It:

• Reassure employees that the technology is meant to support them, not replace them.
• Highlight how digital tools reduce tedious tasks, allowing workers to focus on more valuable activities.
• Show how real-time data benefits the company and their day-to-day responsibilities by making their work smoother and less stressful.

Real-World Example: A grocery store’s stockroom staff initially resisted switching to an inventory scanning system, fearing their jobs would be cut. However, they saw that the system reduced errors and saved time once implemented. This allowed them to focus on maintaining better stock levels and assisting customers instead of being stuck in the back counting products.

"What If It Doesn't Work?"

Skepticism about new technology can come from previous experiences where systems were glitchy or unreliable.

How to Overcome It:

• Start with a pilot program to demonstrate reliability before full-scale implementation.
• Ensure employees have access to support for troubleshooting issues.
• Choose technology that integrates smoothly with existing workflows, preventing disruption.

Real-World Example: A restaurant with multiple locations rolled out an inventory app after experiencing frequent miscounts with their previous system. By starting with one location first and addressing any issues before expanding, they built trust in the tool and saw higher adoption rates.

Making Technology Adoption Seamless

Technology like trakr Counting is designed to make employees’ lives easier—not harder. By addressing their concerns head-on and demonstrating ease of use, businesses can improve operational efficiency without facing resistance. With a smooth onboarding process, employees will not only adopt the new technology but embrace it as an essential part of their workflow.