Like most of the country, I was enthralled watching the gravity-defying acrobatics and perfectly synchronized high dives during this summer's Olympics. But one thought occurred to me: Those medal-worthy performances would not have been possible without the right equipment. Strength, skill and determination play a significant role, of course, but a sprinter cannot compete at their fullest potential without the right shoes and the high diver cannot compete in a shallow pool.

Like those athletes, insurance agencies need the right tools to provide gold medal-level services to their clients.

Even though the benefits of integrating technology into agency operations are apparent, change management can be the biggest sticking point in deciding to take the plunge. Agencies are often held back by the fear of change that comes with new technology, as well as the potential for a lack of integration and core functionality. However, this process doesn't need to be scary.

Let's take a cue from the athletes who captivated the world this summer with these four ways to score a perfect 10 when integrating technology into your agency:

1) Run a marathon, not a sprint. Agencies adopting new technology must consider their long-term needs and find a solution that will grow alongside them. Think of it like a track and field event. Addressing today's issues may win the sprint but considering what features will benefit your agency the most in the future will help you win the marathon.

2) Develop a game plan. Athletes approach their sport with a plan. Agencies should consider how their new and existing technology works together and develop an adoption plan.

Individual technology solutions are a Band-Aid that solve issues, but you won't truly realize their benefits unless they are integrated. Consider the core functionality you need and which processes you want to automate before making any decisions. You can then determine which solutions need to work together. Integrating platforms from day one will save your staff time now and save you from needing to change platforms in the future.

3) Train like an athlete. Olympic athletes don't show up to their events and expect to win gold without training and you can't expect to approach new technology and get the most out of it without training your staff either.

To be successful with new technology, your staff needs more than handouts and a quick tutorial. Arrange for hands-on training, on-demand video tutorials and ongoing check-ins with your technology partner to help with real-world issues that arise during the adoption process. Helping your team feel confident using new tools will eliminate the pain of change.

4) Choose the right coach. You won't find an Olympic athlete without a coach helping with strategy and training. Look at your technology provider as your coach. But not just any coach will do, so make sure you find the right technology partner for your business.

The right partner can alleviate the concerns that are holding you back. They will take the time to understand your business to advise on which solutions are best for your agency based on your current needs and long-term growth strategy. Not only will this partner be instrumental in integrating the solution and ensuring your success with it, but they will also be the best asset when training your staff.

Anupam Gupta is chief product officer at Applied Systems.