ERP Training - Important Step in Implementation Cycle

ERP training is the most important step in implementation cycle which most of the time is underestimated and under budgeted, but it is a proven fact that proper training can not only save money but also raises the chances of successful implementation and utilization of ERP. There are many theories about how much money shall be invested or budgeted for training purpose which may be correct for few companies but cannot be for each one. Organization has to identify and decide the amount of money, time and resources it needs to put in for completing this step successfully and satisfactorily.

Training of project team before beginning the implementation process can be of immense help. In the project team representation of all the departments of the organization is given priority over hands on ERP experience, which is correct, but proper configuration level training on all the core modules shall be imparted to all the team members so that they are able to get ERP implemented to utilize it for end to end business processes. Technical training shall be given to handle issues like system administration, report writing, customizing forms and work place and application development. Training sessions for the project team shall be designed in such a way that consultants of the vendor are able to impart knowledge of use to them. Apart from configuring the modules and customizing them, training shall focus on the integration of different modules with other business processes too.

Top layer and bottom layer of the organization is comprised of most important people with a crucial role to play in the success of ERP implementation. The top management training gives them a complete picture about ERP itself as well as sort of changes it will bring in the organization, volume of effort required for implementation and necessary steps to be taken for smooth functioning in post implementation phase and the how the organization in terms of working will look after the deployment of new system. The lowest layer has employees who will make the ERP successful if they understand the qualities, the need and necessity for the changes in the working system and the shortcomings of the system. They shall be made aware about the information they will be able to get in seconds and how they can utilize the system when they are in field or what sort of knowledge or technical support are at their disposal now with the new system.

The people who will be actually using the ERP to carry out day to day functioning of the company needs a well designed training syllabi. Too much training and information about the ERP can be counterproductive hence they shall be trained in two cycles. In the first one specific training shall be imparted for carrying out their day to day works efficiently by utilizing all the features of the latest system without making mistakes. ERP Training shall also describe to each and every user about the ways of cross-checking and identifying mistakes and proper channels to correct them. At later stage, when ERP has been live for few months another session can be started for imparting knowledge about alternative methods of doing the regular job and about advanced features.

Training as a whole needs specific attention and devotion to make ERP work efficiently and it is a no secret, without proper training companies have suffered a failed ERP implementation process or the process continues even after 20 years of deployment.Also know about Institution for ERP Courses.