The first step towards implementing a new technology is to prepare a plan that sets out goals and ways to achieve them.
The planning process begins with a needs assessment (also described as an “environmental scan”) that answers the following questions: What are you currently doing? What do you want to improve? What do your stakeholders expect of you? How do your managers and your staff feel about implementing new technology? Can new technology meet your identified needs and expectations? At the end of this assessment process you might (or you might not) conclude that new technology is what you need.
Once the decision is taken to introduce new technology or update existing technology, a detailed plan for securing stakeholder agreement, obtaining funds and implementing the chosen technology will be needed
After new technology has been purchased and installed, it will have to be developed and maintained. A development strategy is needed to ensure the effective deployment of the technology.
Source: "Management of Advanced Technology in Elections", Harry Neufeld, Management Consultant, Canada (British Columbia's Chief Electoral Officer since 7 November 2002)
