Users are the key to realizing the full potential of your Office 365 investment. Create an awareness campaign that builds hype to maximize results.
When introducing a new product or technology, it’s important to address change with positive but sensitive messaging that ensures your employees see the value of the new technology and how they can benefit from using it.
Creating that awareness or “buzz” through a communications campaign is key to driving adoption of Office 365.
But that’s not the only factor that plays a role. It’s also important to generate hype – attention and excitement – for your Office 365 launch.
Generate hype by using multiple channels in your awareness campaign. Saying the same things in different ways will foster a stronger response.
From email and posters to formal launch events and one-on-one conversations, your awareness campaign can take many forms. Each serves a distinct purpose, but you will want to use a variety of tactics to maximize your results.
How to Generate Hype for Office 365 Adoption
Below are five ways you can generate excitement and attention through your awareness campaign:
#1 – Brand the Launch
Brand your launch so it’s recognizable and employees can associate with it.
A good way to do this is come up with a theme and use it in all of your conversations and promotional materials. Refer to it regularly so it sticks in people’s minds and they start to use it, too.
#2 – Internal Site Communications
Use an Office 365 SharePoint site to manage your Office 365 roll-out.
This portal should contain centralized resources to provide users with real-time information on Office 365. Some of those resources include a roll-out schedule, updates, feedback, FAQs, tips and tricks, training documents, team contacts and progress updates.
By having everything centrally located, it will help you save vital time – all while increasing clarity and excitement.
#3 – Email Campaign and Newsletters
Email is the most common communication channel – and one that you can be sure your users will check – so put it to good use.
Send regular emails and newsletters that answer the main questions your users have:
- “Why are we moving to Office 365?”
- “What is required of me?”
- “How does this help me do my job?”
The opportunities to create content that builds the hype is just endless.
#4 – Scenario Spotlights
Think of your business vision and identify scenarios that will help guide the messaging.
Focus not on the product itself, but rather how the product impacts end users.
One example is to share sneak peaks and teasers on social media. This helps create a sense of anticipation, bring people together, and increase confidence.
#5 – Feedback Channels
Enable two-way communication with your users by including links to your internal site and Yammer group for feedback, support, and training. Use the feedback to adjust your communication plan and strengthen your messaging.
A good communications campaign starts before the roll-out of new technology, but it doesn’t end with the launch.
You should continue to create hype about Office 365 after you’ve rolled it out to the company to make sure people keep using it and find new ways to collaborate.