New tech, without the risk – strategic technology trials
This article was written in collaboration between HAMR Insights and CareApp
Bringing new technology into aged care can be an opportunity to optimise care and operations, but isn’t without its challenges. With stretched budgets, busy teams, and significant regulatory change, it's no surprise that investing in digital tools is often seen as both risky and time consuming.
Transformation doesn’t have to be overwhelming - the key is progress, not perfection.
At HAMR Insights, we’ve seen firsthand the challenges aged care providers experience with tech adoption, from workforce readiness, to integration, and financial constraints. That’s why we advocate for a pragmatic, step-by-step approach. Rather than diving into a full-scale rollout, controlled trials provide a safe, structured way to evaluate new technology before making big commitments.
Why trials make sense
Instead of investing in a system upfront based on what you’ve heard during a (sometimes lengthy) procurement process, trials let you:
Measure the outcomes – Does this system genuinely improve care, communication, compliance, or efficiency?
Identify roadblocks early – Does the integration with your other systems work as expected? Will staff embrace it?
Manage costs – Avoid major upfront investments and only scale what works.
From our work with aged care providers, we know that digital transformation isn’t just about technology. It’s about people. The best solutions don’t just look good on paper, they fit seamlessly into daily workflows, support staff, and enhance care delivery. A trial period helps you find out whether a product truly delivers before you commit.
Trials in practice: CareApp’s ‘Fun Size’ subscription
CareApp has put this strategy into practice from the vendor side of the equation. Their ‘Fun Size’ free trial gives aged care providers 90 days to test the app with six residents and two staff members, offering a limited-scale way to experience its impact, and test its value for your organisation. Alongside the free trial, they offer support webinars and online resources, ensuring your team aren’t left to ‘trial’ a tool they don’t understand.
This low-risk, high-value approach aligns with the needs of providers. Instead of requiring immediate investment, CareApp offers a manageable way to explore digital transformation without significant financial commitment.
Small steps, big wins
Tech adoption doesn’t have to be all or nothing. A well-planned trial, measuring specific outcomes, can validate a tool’s effectiveness, prepare your team for change, and set the foundation for larger-scale innovation. A successful technology strategy isn’t to make major changes all at once, but rather, to start small, learn fast, and scale what works.
If you’re thinking about introducing new technology, a trial might just be the best way to take that first step with confidence.
If you’re not sure where to start, consider HAMR Insights’ own ‘fun sized’ offering – the Tech Pulse. A rapid, high impact systems review to help you identify key strategic focus areas.