When implementing a new enterprise resource planning software, training is one of the most important considerations. Without proper training, your company will experience crucial setbacks, your employees will be frustrated and your bottom line will suffer. Take the time to create a thorough ERP integration training program that engages employees on all levels.
Consult your staff First, you should ask staff members what they expect from this new software. It was brought on board to improve operations, and although you already have certain intentions for its use, managers and end-users may have different ideas. Businesses have to know what employees feel needs to improve immediately and how they want the new software to help their jobs. You should figure out what employees want to know, what they need to know and the best ways to teach them.
Devise training methods Then, manufacturers should determine which training options best benefit their organizations. There are several methods available, including online webinars, video tutorials detailing each step, classroom workshops and the tried-and-true manual. Companies should list methods that work within their budgets and timelines and choose the maximum number of methods that fit these constraints.
Also, be flexible with the training timeline and don't try to move things too quickly. Rushed training leads to mistakes and inefficient methods. It's better to spend time making sure everyone is on the same page rather than fixing problems down the road.
According to CIO.com, the best training engages multiple regions of the brain. Combine words, diagrams, video and images in as many areas as possible, as this method reinforces new information and commits it to memory. In fact, it's best to provide employees several tailored training options – budget permitting – to make sure they understand what they've learned and reduce future mistakes.
Training should be structured according to an employee's current role. Executives and managers won't require the same knowledge as ordinary team members dealing with individual operations. Some might argue higher level management won't need training at all, but CIO.com disagreed. It said companies without executive involvement in ERP software implementation tend to struggle more at the lower levels. Engaged management makes for engaged workers. That said, every employee doesn't need training in every aspect of the software. This is where businesses can work effectively and efficiently, reducing training costs and keeping everyone as productive as possible.
Prepare for real-life scenarios Finally, train employees for real scenarios they'll encounter in the workplace. Lessons and simulations should be tailored to your specific company and walk your staff through the process. CIO.com told the story of a training-related issue that became a bigger problem than it needed to be. A transmitter at a radio station shut down, and although the instructions to restart it were handy, the on-duty operator didn't know what to do because he had never experienced it. By relating the software to tasks employees will actually accomplish as opposed to theoretical overviews, workers will be equipped to handle daily operations, as well as unusual occurrences and malfunctions.
It's time to get started with your new ERP software. Contact Dynamics Manufacturing Solutions today.
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