Quick Tip: Rules of ERP Implementation- Develop A Training Approach

Rule #5: Develop a Training Approach

This Quick Tip is part of a series on the six rules of a successful ERP implementation. The first rule is to provide full management support to the implementation, the second rule is to have a system champion, the third rule is to get employee buy-in, and the fourth rule is to have written plans for the ERP implementation. 

The fifth rule focuses on creating an ERP training approach for the entire ERP implementation process. When it comes to training employees on the new software, you may wonder how much ERP training is required for a successful implementation. As a rule of thumb, your employees can never receive too much ERP software training. This is especially true if you are embarking on a “big bang” ERP implementation approach. By “big bang” we mean that everything is going live on the same day versus a phased approach.

New systems are sophisticated, and people need plenty of time to learn the product, experiment with it, and see how it works before it goes live. Granted, the best applications are intuitive and easy to use, but proper ERP software training goes beyond the basic software. With quality training, your employees can utilize each feature properly and maximize your company’s investment in the ERP software. 

There are various types of ERP training that you and your team can take advantage of during the implementation process, including:  

Vendor-based

Your employees go to the vendor’s site for an intensive course on the basics of the ERP software. Depending on how often classes are held, this may be your first introduction to the software or come after you have had some online or on-site training. MIE Solutions’ training class, for example, is a vendor-based boot camp that lasts 3 days and provides a thorough introduction and total ERP software training. 

On-site

This type of software training is going to be geared towards your company’s exact needs and processes because the vendor comes to your site to work with specific groups or individuals. This training can last as long as necessary and usually involves using your own data. Retiring or outgoing workers should not have to train their replacements, so take good-quality notes to pass on to new hires and save all materials for future review. 

Online

This ERP training option typically involves phone calls, TeamViewer, videos, and is tailored to answer your company’s specific questions. Extra time can be purchased for those that need additional training.  Finally, recognize that ERP training does not end post-implementation. We suggest including a future on-site instructor in your training approach. This allows new and existing employees to use the software much more effectively, which enhances your ongoing ROI. 

Look out for the sixth and final rule of ERP implementation: “Prioritize & Follow Through”.