Implementation vs. Onboarding — What's the Difference?

Installation and configuration of systems.

Introduction and adjustment of new users to a system.

The act of putting something into effect.

Activities aimed at increasing newcomers' understanding of the organizational culture.

A process of executing a plan or idea.

Training provided to help new hires adjust.

Realization of a technical system in a live environment.

The process of integrating a new employee into an organization.

Technical execution of a system or policy.

Process to ensure new employees are welcomed and informed.

Implementation is the realization of an application, or execution of a plan, idea, model, design, specification, standard, algorithm, or policy.

Onboarding, also known as organizational socialization, is management jargon first created in the 1970s that refers to the mechanism through which new employees acquire the necessary knowledge, skills, and behaviors in order to become effective organizational members and insiders. In the United States, for example, up to 25% of workers are organizational newcomers engaged in an onboarding process.Tactics used in this process include formal meetings, lectures, videos, printed materials, or computer-based orientations that outline the operations and culture of the organization that the employee is entering into.

The process of putting a decision or plan into effect; execution

(business) The process of bringing a new employee on board, incorporating training and orientation.

A tool, utensil, or other piece of equipment used in doing work

An article used to outfit or equip someone

A means of achieving an end; an instrument or agent.

To put into practical effect; carry out

To supply with implements.

The process of moving an idea from concept to reality. In business, engineering and other fields, implementation refers to the building process rather than the design process.

(electronics) A result of implementing something; a finished product, system or device.

The act of accomplishing some aim or executing some order;

The act of implementing (providing a practical means for accomplishing something); carrying into effect

The main focus of implementation is setting up systems or processes to ensure they operate correctly.

Onboarding is usually handled by human resources or team leaders.

Onboarding addresses challenges related to employee adjustment, understanding of organizational culture, and training needs.

Implementation ensures systems function efficiently, while onboarding ensures users can effectively use these systems and feel integrated within the organization.

Yes, implementation can occur without onboarding, especially in contexts not involving new users or employees.

Onboarding emphasizes integrating and training new employees or users to make them comfortable and proficient in their new environment.

Implementation is typically managed by IT professionals or project managers.

Yes, onboarding is considered essential for all new hires to ensure a smooth transition and integration into the company.

Common challenges include technical issues, integration complexities, and meeting specific operational requirements.

Onboarding duration can vary, but it generally continues until the new employee or user feels fully integrated and competent.

The duration of implementation varies widely depending on the scope of the project and the systems involved.