One of the most common reasons ERP implementations fail is a lack of proper training – and it can also result in employees resenting the new system and deciding to work around or outside of it completely.
When your users aren’t prepared for a new software solution they become a roadblock to successful implementation. However, with proper change management techniques you can help win over your end-users and help increase the successes of your ERP solution.
Demonstrate the benefits of the solution
ERP solutions help employees perform better, and as a result the company performs better. But just how does this new application help those employees? This is what they need to see, not just statistics or statements on what the ERP solution will do for them. Show them how they are able to create, transfer and access information and data much more quickly with the new ERP system. Demonstrate how they are able to automate tedious work processes that used to slow things down and let them see just how this tool can help get rid of unnecessary procedures and cut down on excessive paperwork. When the end-user sees exactly how it will improve their work and their life on the job, there is a greater chance that they will support what you are doing.
Budget for training, real training
Too often, training means hiring someone to create a walk-through video of a new software application, maybe throw a quiz in there and then expect the users to be experts. That approach is laughable. Using a computer based training module is good for giving people an overview, but you need them to have hands on experience working within the modules that they will use in their job functions. Make sure your project plan allows adequate time and money to have people trained properly.
Make user experience important
There are many factors that go into choosing which ERP solution you will buy. Cost, scalability and security are some of the most common ones; but user experience is frequently left off the list. If an ERP solution is hard to use people are going to push back against it, especially if it makes their jobs harder. When evaluating different vendor offerings, make sure to include a sampling of your user base and collect feedback on the user experience before making a decision.
The end-user can be extremely difficult to please. While you may know your end-users, sometimes it takes an outsider to oversee effective change management when it comes to your ERP solution. If you realize that you need help with user buy-in, turn to those who are experts in managing ERP implementations. Often these consultants not only realize the importance of user-buy in, but have experience in successfully creating an atmosphere that supports your new ERP solution and the implementation project.
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