3 reasons why training leads to optimal ERP use!
Do you recognize that feeling too? You are editing a document in Microsoft Word and have the impression that you only master 20% of all the possibilities that Microsoft Word offers you. After a lot of searching, you finally decide to go for the simple solution: you format your document as you have always done. If you had had more knowledge and skills... you would have achieved a better result faster.
The same applies to working with a Microsoft Dynamics Navision ERP solution. From my years of experience as a trainer, I notice every day that many users have insufficient knowledge and skills to really work well with the ERP package. This experience is supported by numerous studies, where the lack of knowledge and skills is stated as a critical factor for the success of an ERP software implementation.
There are at least 3 reasons why it is of great importance to properly train users:
1) Performing daily tasks effectively and efficiently
If an end user is well trained, it means that he or she is able to perform his or her daily tasks efficiently and effectively. Not only the routine tasks, but also the exceptions to the usual process can be performed by a well-trained user in the ERP package. Fewer mistakes, less searching for the way of working, less frustration... in the end less costs because everything goes faster.
2) Implementing optimizations
An ERP package is often set up, taking into account only the current situation. Users receive task-oriented training by their own colleagues (train the trainer concept): they only learn a trick in the system. The structure, underlying concepts and possibilities are usually not explained. The consultant makes the choices for the customer. By really training users - also explaining the concepts and possibilities - they are able to think along about improvements to the system. If processes have to be adjusted, for example because markets, the organizational model or the range change, this can be completed by our own employees. Instead of an ERP system that is no longer relevant and appropriate due to changes, the system remains a real support system for the main processes of the company.
3) Integrated working and thinking
An ERP system is one of the company's central systems. All data from all corners of the company come together in 1 database. All operational processes, but also many of the reports, are controlled from this one database. The ERP is like a spider in a web: an integral system for the entire company. It is therefore surprising that so many employees are only taught a number of actions from a colleague or a work instruction. Many users actually have no idea where the information they work with comes from and where it goes (at least in the ERP system). The system is a black box, which sometimes does what you expect it to do. Without good insight into the system (i.e. without well-trained employees) you see that the system is experienced as rigid and inefficient. Users create their own solution by creating their own Excel sheets, communicating via email outside the system. This results in a user experience that is at odds with the data displayed by the ERP system. By really training users, where more is learned than just a trick, you break through this experience of the ERP system.
Optimal use of ERP!
As you often experience with the Office packages, it is also the case with an ERP package. Only with sufficient knowledge and skills can you make optimal use of the software that supports you in your daily work, it also applies with Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. Insufficient knowledge and skills not only ensure that the daily tasks are performed less effectively and efficiently, but also ensures that in the longer term the system does not grow with the company and the integrated character is completely lost. Training pays off!