Getting everybody on board
Implementing a digital strategy in a school is no small feat, and one of the biggest challenges is gaining full support from teachers, administrators, parents, and students. In school community, people often hold diverse levels of comfort with technology, distinct expectations for learning, and unique concerns. Not everyone will automatically be on board with the changes a digital strategy can bring, and so one of the key steps in successful implementation is actively building belief in the strategy. This involves creating a sense of enthusiasm, trust, and understanding around how it will ultimately benefit everyone involved.
A critical part of building support is taking the time to understand the perspectives of different stakeholders. Teachers and administrators, for instance, might feel hesitant about new technology initiatives, concerned that it will add to their workloads or require them to learn unfamiliar systems. Parents may have questions about how more technology in classrooms will affect their child’s overall development, possibly worrying about increased screen time or how tech tools align with academic goals. And while students are often enthusiastic about using new tech, their levels of comfort and skill vary, and they, too, will need support. Listening to these perspectives and validating their concerns is essential for building a foundation of trust. This approach shows that the digital strategy aims to serve the best interests of the community, not simply to introduce technology for technology’s sake.
One of the most effective ways to build belief in the strategy is to clearly communicate why it matters. It’s not enough to present the strategy as a list of new tools or platforms; people need to see how it will lead to positive, tangible changes. For instance, if part of the digital strategy involves using an online platform to streamline communication between teachers and parents, explain how this will improve clarity, reduce misunderstandings, and make it easier to stay informed about students’ progress. When people see how the strategy will support their needs they’re more likely to feel that it’s worth their time and effort to engage with it.
Another important step is to make people feel part of the strategy from the beginning. Including teachers, parents, and students in discussions and decision-making processes shows that their input is valued. Holding informational sessions, focus groups, or Q&A events can help answer questions, alleviate doubts, and encourage collaboration. For example, gathering feedback from teachers on which digital tools they find most useful or what training they would need to use them effectively can foster a sense of ownership over the digital transformation process. This involvement helps stakeholders feel more personally invested, turning a “top-down” strategy into a shared, community-driven initiative.
Celebrating small successes along the way can also be an effective method for maintaining momentum. Recognising early adopters, highlighting improvements in classrooms, and sharing stories of positive experiences all contribute to building a sense of progress. These celebrations don’t need to be grand gestures; simple recognition in a meeting, newsletter, or parent night event can go a long way in making people feel appreciated for their efforts and in showing the real-world impact of the digital strategy.
Lastly, transparency and openness to feedback help sustain long-term belief in the strategy. Digital transformations are rarely flawless, and showing a willingness to adjust or improve the plan based on input can reassure people that their voices matter. When stakeholders know their feedback is helping shape the strategy, they’re more likely to remain supportive, even during challenging times.
Building belief in a digital strategy takes time and effort, but when the community feels included, understands the benefits, and can celebrate progress, they’re far more likely to embrace the journey and make the digital transformation a lasting success.
