Training is not a one-time event; it’s a continuous journey that evolves alongside business needs. In the fast-paced world of enterprise applications, where innovation is the norm, a robust training lifecycle is essential for maximising ROI and driving organisational success.
The ERP Implementation Lifecycle:
A Foundation for Training
Successful ERP implementations hinge on effective training, whether that is Oracle Fusion Applications, SAP S/4 Hana, Midland iTrent or other. iTrain’s comprehensive approach spans the entire lifecycle, from pre-implementation planning to post-implementation support.
It was once the view that training was simply a go-live readiness task. Access to skills, both from programme partners and building them within the business, throughout the programme lifecycle is now fully accepted, and how that is managed is far more sophisticated. This piece explores how and where training intervention drives successful projects and ensures business needs are understood and met throughout the project.
Pre-Implementation: Laying the Groundwork
-
Business Process Analysis and Optimization: By meticulously analysing existing processes, identifying pain points, and mapping future workflows, iTrain helps clients streamline operations earlier in the project life cycle to avoid costly change requests (CRs). iTrain will work with your team to provide tailored support to successfully deliver this critical phase.
-
Change Management Integration: Embracing change is crucial. iTrain incorporates change management principles into training programs, empowering employees to adapt to new processes and technologies. Our change management practice brings methodologies tested across numerous projects, industries and regions to guarantee value and structure from the outset.
-
KPI-Driven Training Plan: Aligning training objectives with organisational KPIs ensures that learning directly contributes to business goals.
Implementation: Building a Strong Foundation
-
Functional Design Workshops: iTrain’s technical expertise complements business knowledge, providing valuable insights into ERP capabilities and recommending optimal solutions. We ensure your team has the skills and product knowledge to fully engage in this critical stage, and understanding or the product ensures your team and programme partners engage as peers, the “informed client”.
-
Rigorous Testing: Smoke testing and User Acceptance Testing (UAT) are essential for a smooth go-live. Implementers should not drive testing. Engaging both testing and training partners provide unique advantages to iTrain’s clients. Our role guarantees thorough validation and prepares users for the new system. We’d welcome discussing this further with you.
-
Comprehensive Training Materials: To facilitate knowledge transfer, iTrain develops engaging e-learning modules, videos, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Our solutions are client-led, and our training mirrors your organisational needs.
Post-Implementation: Sustaining Success
-
End-User Empowerment: Ongoing training empowers employees to maximise system utilisation and drive efficiency.
-
Knowledge Transfer: Train-the-trainer programs create a multiplier effect, ensuring knowledge is disseminated throughout the organisation.
-
AI-Powered Support: An AI chatbot provides instant answers to user queries, enhancing self-sufficiency and reducing support burden.
-
Personalised Support: One-on-one engagements address specific challenges and provide tailored guidance.
Beyond the Project: Continuous Improvement
-
New Functionality Adoption: As ERP systems evolve, iTrain ensures employees stay updated with new features and functionalities.
-
Onboarding Excellence: Seamlessly integrating new hires into the organization through targeted training programs.
-
Process Optimization: Training initiatives that improve key performance indicators (KPIs) drive operational efficiency.
-
Compliance and Governance: Staying ahead of regulatory changes through comprehensive training.
-
Knowledge Capitalization: Transforming training materials into valuable assets for future reference and reuse.
-
Automation Identification: Leveraging training to uncover opportunities for automation and process maturity.
A Holistic Approach to Training
By adopting a holistic training lifecycle, organisations can:
-
Enhance employee engagement and productivity
-
Reduce implementation risks and costs
-
Accelerate ROI on ERP investments
-
Drive continuous improvement and innovation
iTrain’s expertise in combining business process analysis, change management, and technology-driven training solutions empowers organisations to achieve their strategic objectives.
To discuss how iTrain can partner with you to drive programme value and success please contact us now.