Making Incremental Changes

One of the great things about Dentrix Ascend is the freedom of choice it gives dental practices who want to try out new computing platforms.  Ascend runs on the Google Chrome browser, which runs on every computing platform you can think of (and some you've never heard of).

We have surveyed our Early Adopter Program candidates to learn what platforms they intend to use with Ascend and the answers are pretty interesting.  The vast majority of respondents will continue to use Microsoft Windows and over two-thirds will introduce one or more other operating systems into their office. 

Having such a liberating practice management system its easy to get carried away, so its a good idea to have a plan to manage the pace a change.  Remember, even if you are a computer whiz and pick up new systems fast your other team members may need more time.

We have identified three major system changes that our early adopters frequently plan on making as part of their switch to Dentrix Ascend.

1. Practice management software (obviously)
2. Computer platforms (wholesale change or simply adding new devices)
3. Digital imaging (adopting imaging for the first time or switching to a new system)

Having helped a bunch of customers make the switch to Ascend we advise new prospects to plan to make incremental changes in manageable stages.

Start with your practice management software since it will be the heart and foundation of your new system.  Make sure your staff gets the training they need to be successful.  At this time we recommend at least eight hours of training for each office.  That may change as we add major new features into Ascend.  Give your team time to become familiar with the software.  The stuff they use every day will quickly become old hat but they may need to relearn features that are infrequently used several times before they become truly comfortable with the software.  Set an appropriate amount of time after your Ascend "go live" date to survey your team to determine how ready they are for additional change.  It might be weeks or months--you know your team and what they can handle.

Once you think your office is ready for the new computing platform discuss your plan with the team.  Will you be replacing the old machines cold turkey or will you be adding to what is already familiar?  Some team members may be more change averse than others.  Since Ascend accommodates so many different platforms it is easy to let them use what is most comfortable for them.

Whichever platform you choose its a good idea to get training for team members.  You may be familiar with the new system and think its a snap to use, but its hard to know how easy it will be for others to learn.  Everyday tools like a mouse can work so differently between systems that people who are familiar with a competing platform can quickly become disoriented and discouraged.  Hiring a good trainer will pay dividends as your staff will be adopt to convert to the computing platform with little resistance.  And remember that your staff will need time to get comfortable with their new computers and devices before they are ready to incorporate additional technology changes.

With your new practice management system and computing platform(s) in place you have a solid foundation in place to build on.  Go ahead and  introduce digital imaging into your practice are make the switch to the new system you have had your eye on.

Is your office switching to Ascend?  Feel free to ask questions or share your experience here.