Successful implementation of ERP software can help to simplify your company processes leading to a more efficient operational strategy. You need to make sure your workforce are equally invested in your ERP project, although it shouldn’t be hard to persuade them considering of the potential benefits to your organization and their jobs. Once you’ve explained how your new ERP will can help your business move towards lean manufacturing practices and achieve a real return, it’s a good idea to put a user training plan in place. Here are three reasons why:

1. It will encourage your staff to engage with a culture of continued learning which will keep them motivated

In a recent study, 6% of the sampled population suggested that one the greatest challenges when implementing ERP was overcoming a lack of quality user-end training. Prioritizing your ERP user training, which will require time and focus initially, is a way of safeguarding the future of your ERP project. An engaged workforce should only make your ERP implementation smoother and protect you financially in the long-run.

To achieve the best ROI, user adoption is key so commitment to an ongoing and flexible training plan is important. If your staff are engaged with your ERP project and feel supported going forward, you’ll have a happier workforce who will work harder to help you achieve your company’s growth potential.

2. You will see results when focusing on tailored training that suits the needs of individuals

With 84% of employees in best performing organizations receiving training they need, a user training plan can help your organization stay on the track to success. Bear in mind that training shouldn’t be one size fits all. Members of staff in different departments will require different levels of user support depending on their experience and respective roles. By tailoring your training to the needs of individuals you can ensure that each member of staff is receiving the right support to complement their existing skillset.

3. You can provide leadership and growth opportunities for your top performers

The prospect of an ERP system implementation can seem daunting, however manufacturers can take simple steps to make sure everything at the implementation stage runs smoothly. There should be a representatives from across your organization – from executives to end-users – involved in decision-making. An ERP implementation project provides opportunities of personal and professional growth for your employees in all areas of your business for example, through the appointment of super-users. It’s the job of super-users to feedback on elements of the ERP system and in some cases even assist trainees. To be the right fit they should to be detail-orientated, familiar with the technology, be personable and demonstrate enthusiasm for the project. If you’ve hired an ERP project manager internally, they should have a role in training as well as the leadership qualities that help drive implementation forward. In putting together your ERP user training plan, you can identify top performing employees and offer them further opportunities to demonstrate their strengths.

About the Author: Lauren Stafford works as a Digital Publishing Specialist at ERP Focus, a platform which gathers the latest news, research and opinion about ERP software.