GydeBites Podcast, hosted by Prasanna Vaidya, co-founder of GYDE AI, features an insightful conversation with Robby Wagner, Salesforce Lead Systems Learning Consultant at Paragon IT Professionals, focusing on enhancing Salesforce adoption beyond the initial go-live phase.
Wagner, who brings over 15 years of experience in Salesforce training, user adoption, and change management, shared practical advice on addressing common challenges organizations face when rolling out Salesforce systems.
He noted that successful Salesforce adoption requires more than just technical implementation – it demands strong leadership support, robust change management, and continuous user engagement.
Addressing Key Challenges in Salesforce Adoption
According to Wagner, one of the primary hurdles in achieving sustained Salesforce adoption is the misconception that users will naturally embrace the new system once it is deployed. He emphasized the need for proactive change management and leadership involvement from the start.
“Too often, companies focus entirely on the build phase and assume users will automatically adapt,” Wagner said. “Without clear communication, early user involvement, and leadership buy-in, adoption becomes a major challenge.”
He also underscored the importance of involving end-users early in the process. Excluding employees from planning and communication can lead to disengagement and resistance, he cautioned.
Role-Based Training and Tailored Learning
When asked how Salesforce training should be customized, Wagner advocated for role-based and scenario-driven learning experiences. “Training should reflect a day in the life of each user,” he said. “People learn best when they see how Salesforce impacts their daily work.”
He also pointed out that assuming all employees are equally tech-savvy can lead to ineffective training outcomes. Trainers must anticipate varying skill levels and ensure everyone – from front-line staff to managers – receives relevant, understandable instruction.
Also Read: How Gyde AI is Transforming Enterprise Software Training
Tools to Support Ongoing Salesforce Learning
Wagner recommended providing diverse learning aids such as short video tutorials, quick reference guides, and job aids that align with training content. He emphasized that consistency between training materials and post-launch resources improves retention and confidence among users.
“Learning doesn’t end on training day,” Wagner added. “It continues before, during, and after go-live through accessible, on-demand tools.”
Building Long-Term Salesforce Adoption
Sustained Salesforce adoption, according to Wagner, hinges on leadership engagement and continuous reinforcement. He advised organizations to integrate change management into their project plans from the outset and maintain communication across all levels.
“What we do today determines tomorrow’s success,” he said. “When leadership communicates support and departments align early, the chances of long-term adoption increase dramatically.”
Wagner also emphasized the importance of follow-up sessions, feedback loops, and post-launch assessments to identify user challenges and provide refresher training as needed.
Also Read: AI, Skills, and Strategy Are Reshaping the Future of Learning and Development
The First 90 Days: A Roadmap for Effective Enablement
Sharing his approach to the first 90 days of a Salesforce rollout, Wagner highlighted the importance of early planning, identifying key stakeholders, and creating a clear training and support roadmap.
He suggested dedicating the initial 60 days to partnership building, strategy design, and leadership alignment, followed by consistent post-launch support and feedback analysis. “The first 90 days are critical. That’s where adoption is either built – or lost,” Wagner said.
A People-First Approach to Salesforce Adoption
Wagner concluded with an actionable tip for organizations embarking on their Salesforce journey: make change management a non-negotiable part of every project plan.
“The system is only as effective as the people who use it,” he said. “Take change management seriously – because that’s what drives real Salesforce adoption.”
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