Rolling out a new uniform program across multiple departments isn’t as simple as picking a shirt and slapping on a logo. It’s a detailed process involving everything from selecting SKUs and managing customizations to organizing employee rosters and establishing allowances. Add in a rotating cast of decision-makers on the customer side, and it can feel like trying to hit a moving target.
At Hanover Uniform, we’ve seen this story play out more than once—and we’ve learned how to manage it.
The Challenge: When Change Slows Progress
One of our recent multi-department clients was eager to launch a streamlined uniform program. But just as we were finalizing the details for the ordering site, their lead contact shifted roles. Suddenly, new decision-makers were stepping in—each with their own priorities, questions, and (understandably) learning curves.
The ripple effects? Delayed approvals, duplicated conversations, and confusion over details that had already been locked in. From item selections and embroidery placements to departmental budgets and employee eligibility, it felt like hitting reset every time a new person joined the discussion.
Our Approach: Structure, Clarity, and Patience
We’ve built our process to absorb change without losing momentum. Here’s how we helped this customer—and how we approach any account facing similar hurdles:
1. Centralized Documentation
We maintain a shared, living record of every major decision: approved items, size scales, color codes, embroidery specs, and departmental breakdowns. This running playbook becomes the single source of truth—so when new contacts step in, they’re not starting from scratch.
2. Guided Walkthroughs for New Contacts
We don’t expect new stakeholders to catch up on their own. We schedule recap calls to walk them through the current status, explain why decisions were made, and outline next steps. This helps reduce confusion and rework while building trust.
3. Flexible Ordering Site Configuration
Our CROS platform allows us to build out the structure of the site and make adjustments later. For example, we can create departmental catalogs and set placeholder policies (like allowances or required items) that are easy to refine once leadership gives the green light.
4. Clear Project Milestones
To avoid indefinite limbo, we propose a rollout timeline with clearly defined checkpoints: final item list, size run, logo approvals, roster uploads, and site launch. Even if departments aren’t fully aligned, this roadmap keeps the project moving forward.
The Outcome: A Confident Rollout—Despite the Detours
Despite early delays and shifting contacts, this customer was able to roll out their program in phases—department by department—without sacrificing accuracy or employee satisfaction. Because we built a flexible foundation and over-communicated along the way, their launch was smooth and their team was ready.
Final Thought
In any multi-department organization, leadership changes are a fact of life. But with the right systems in place, they don’t have to derail progress. Hanover Uniform doesn’t just provide the garments—we provide the guidance, structure, and technology to keep your rollout on track, no matter who’s in the driver’s seat.