A system health check is an important tool to assess the performance of your software system and ensure that it is functioning properly to meet the needs of your users. More importantly, it can help identify any potential issues and help you take action.

One of the key components of a software health check is the use of objective criteria to assess the software. This is where the concept of change management (CM) comes into play. Change management is the art of transitioning people from where they are to where they need to go. With software, change management uses the goals and objectives of a system to evaluate how successfully that system is meeting users’ needs and achieving the desired outcomes.

During a system health check, change management can be used to evaluate the software’s performance in several key areas. For example, through interviews, surveys, and data analysis, change management can assess the software’s reliability, efficiency, and ease of use. By focusing on these criteria, it is possible to identify potential issues and make improvements to the software to enhance its performance.

Change management can also be used to identify areas where the software is not meeting the needs of its users. For example, if a software system is not providing the desired results, change management can be used to determine why this is happening and what can be done to improve the situation. This can help to ensure that the software is providing the best possible experience for its users.

Here are some ways to incorporate change management into your system health check:

1. Clearly define the goals and objectives of the software system. This will provide a basis for evaluating the software’s performance and identifying areas for improvement. The goals and objectives should be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Change management practitioners can facilitate defining these goals and objectives with key stakeholders.
2. Involve all stakeholders in the process. This includes the users of the software, as well as the developers and other individuals who are involved in the maintenance and support of the system. By involving all stakeholders, it is possible to get a well-rounded view of the software’s performance and identify areas for improvement. It is also critical to involve executives and get their buy in to support the software’s successful continued adoption.
3. Regularly review and update the goals and objectives of the software system. As the needs of the users and the software itself change over time, it is important to adjust the goals and objectives accordingly. This will ensure that the software continues to meet the needs of its users and provide the desired results.
4. Use both qualitative and quantitative methods, such as surveys, interviews, and data analysis. By using a variety of tools and techniques, it is possible to get a comprehensive view of the software’s performance and identify areas for improvement.

Leveraging change management to engage people in the assessment process can help to ensure that a software system is meeting the needs of its users in a way that maximizes user adoption and return on investment. By clearly defining goals and objectives, involving all stakeholders, regularly reviewing and updating goals and objectives, and using a variety of tools and techniques, it is possible to effectively evaluate the performance of a software system using change management – and ensure you get the most from your systems.

Not sure where to start? Contact us today to learn more about our system health checks!

For more insights for leading successful change, download our whitepaper Business Transformation 2.0: Building Your Digital Foundation with a Mindset for Change.