Case Study: Digital Transformation for the National Restaurant Association

Background

The National Restaurant Association (NRA) faced significant challenges with legacy business processes, inefficient workflows, and fragmented communication tools. To address these issues, a multi-phase digital transformation initiative was launched, focusing on modernizing forms, workflows, and intranet capabilities.

Problems Addressed

Legacy Forms and Workflow Inefficiencies

  • The NRA relied on outdated, manual processes for critical business functions, leading to inefficiencies, tracking difficulties, and inconsistent user experiences.
  • There was a need to migrate and unify these processes into a digital environment with minimal disruption to daily operations.

Complexity in HR and Business Processes

  • Many forms, such as Team Member Referral, FMLA, and Professional Development, required integrated workflows and global components for consistency.
  • Ensuring comprehensive documentation and training for end-users was a persistent challenge.

Lack of Unified Intranet and Communication Tools

  • The existing SharePoint intranet lacked a cohesive hub site architecture, global navigation, and effective communication features.
  • Departments struggled with knowledge sharing and site administration due to insufficient user guides and training.

Solutions Implemented

Phased Forms & Workflow Migration

  • Conducted thorough inventories and workshops to document, prioritize, and migrate forms and workflows using Microsoft PowerApps and Power Automate.
  • Developed global form components and active workflow tracking to ensure consistency and efficiency.
  • Delivered comprehensive documentation, training sessions, and ongoing support for staff during and after implementation.

Hub Site Enhancements

  • Promoted the root SharePoint site to a hub site, connecting all department and team sites for unified navigation.
  • Developed features such as global navigation, knowledge centers, and search centers to improve communication and knowledge sharing.
  • Redesigned HR and communications sites for better usability and provided user guides and training for administrators and end-users.

Results

These projects collectively enabled the NRA to:

  • Modernize and automate critical business workflows.
  • Improve efficiency, tracking, and user experience across departments.
  • Enhance organizational communication and knowledge management.
  • Ensure successful adoption through robust training and ongoing support.
Matthew Koon

Matt drives solution architecture and sales at Workplace, making sure that our expertise matches the needs of our clients and that we continue to offer cutting edge solutions to everyday needs in the enterprise.

By Matthew Koon

Matt drives solution architecture and sales at Workplace, making sure that our expertise matches the needs of our clients and that we continue to offer cutting edge solutions to everyday needs in the enterprise.