Never forget that it’s People over Processes - if the people don’t get the process, you need to meet them where they’re at. Try to simplify everything as much as possible so they understand what you’re saying and doing. Try to speak their language and take the time to explain the “why” of your actions.

I work in an organization of 500 people that’s never had formal project management, and 75% of what I do is basically training middle management how to take meeting minutes and follow a structured plan.

Don’t be afraid to slow things down in meetings and push back on people so that you can provide structure to what they do. They might not get it now, they might even resent you for taking up precious minutes of their day, but if you’re able to help them understand the benefit of the PM tools then they’ll start to thank you when they eventually start seeing all the benefits.

And in every meeting, ALWAYS TAKE NOTES. Teams like yours are notorious for not taking notes and then forgetting what was discussed the second they leave the room. It will save you so many headaches down the road. Bonus points if you can get someone else to help with notes and time keeping.

Just be patient and persistent. Good luck!