End-User Education and Training: The Key to Effective ERP implementation

What does it take to implement Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software effectively? How can you ensure that you harness the full potential of the software? Well, you need to focus on a vital aspect – educating and training end-users. 

But, why is end-user education and training important?

Before we find the answer to this question, it is necessary to understand the 3 key components of an ERP implementation.

Most organizations that implement ERP software focus on only two aspects – process and technology. They do not “scope in” the people (staff members) who would be using the ERP system. This results in poor involvement of the employees, and the consequences can be disastrous.

50% of the ERP implementation failures are attributed to people related issues. — Managing Knowledge and Change in GCC Project: ERP End-User’s Perspective

This problem can be overcome by imparting effective end-user education and training.

OK. What are the aspects on which the end-user education and training needs to focus on?

Companies need to orient their end-user education and training programs towards the following.

• Addressing the apprehensions that employees may have about the ERP system
• Ensuring that the staff get a clear idea of their roles and responsibilities in the post- implementation scenario
• Helping people use the software in hassle-free manner

Let us now look at each aspect in detail.

Addressing the apprehensions that employees may have about the ERP system 

Implementation of ERP software involves considerable changes to the business and operational processes. In most cases, this results in resistance from staff members. People get jittery that they would lose their jobs. It is very essential to allay this fear of the employees to ensure their active participation.

Ensuring that the staff get a clear idea of their roles and responsibilities in the post-implementation scenario 

The re-engineering of business processes often gives rise to new roles and responsibilities. It is very important that the organization explains the new business flows and provides clarity on where they fit in the scheme of things.

Helping people use the software in hassle-free manner 

Most ERP systems are complex, and learners need to have a thorough understanding of the underlying concepts to make the best use of the systems. The firm needs to see that its people are well-trained on these concepts as well the steps involved in using the systems effectively. 

End-user education is one of the most important aspects of an effective ERP implementation. Most ERP projects fail due to people-related issues. It is essential that companies allay the fears of their staff about the implementation of the ERP system and provide clarity about their changed roles and responsibilities. Organizations also need to ensure that their people are well-trained to use the software effectively. I my next blogs, we will examine the challenges in imparting effective end-user training and how to overcome the challenges. So, stay tuned.

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