The major training efforts associated with a new enterprise resource planning system implementation will take place as the new platform is becoming active as a matter of course. All staff members have to be taught how to use certain aspects of a new system before they can begin utilizing it successfully. Additionally, providing some education related to the company-wide functions of a new ERP system can help staff members understand how their individual interactions fit into its overall use at a business.

However, training needs to be an ongoing consideration for companies that want to get the most out of their ERP systems. Business publication Learning Solutions pointed out that a lack of continued emphasis on educating staff will become an increasingly serious problem. Because no business retains 100 percent of its employees indefinitely, the need for educating new staff members and those transitioning into different roles is consistent. The effectiveness of an ERP platform can drop off significantly as the number of staff members who don’t have a strong understanding of its use increases. Considering the significant costs of installing an ERP system as well as the benefits it provides when used properly, it’s imperative that training efforts continue as needed.

Maintaining roles and materials
One way that businesses can make this ongoing obligation to education easier is to create and keep current an archive of training materials. The same documents used to help staff members learn during the initial implementation phase can be easily maintained and provided to those coming into a new role later on. Defining responsibility for training after the platform has been installed is another important step to take. The onboarding practices that help fresh employees get accustomed to the specifics of their new roles should include an ERP training component as necessary. Those in management roles should assign ERP training as a duty to an experienced staff member, standardizing the process.

Update and upgrade training
The other areas to consider when it comes to ERP training are upgrades and updates. While learning about a handful of new features after an update doesn’t require the comprehensive training expected of a new system, it’s still an area that needs to be addressed by a business.