Tip #9: Train Your ERP Core Team With A 4 Course Program
As you will recall from Tip #5, the ERP core team is responsible for managing the ERP implementation project. To become effective implementation managers, the core team members must first become experts in the chosen IT system. And, they have to become subject-matter experts in an almost unreasonably short two to three week period.
Targeted, intensive training is the only way to condense what would otherwise be a several month training program. The ERP core team needs to put through its paces to develop the necessary application-specific expertise.
Since the courses are specific to the ERP system, they should be delivered by the consultants and/or the software vendor. In terms of structure, the program should start with a high-level theoretical overview to provide context. Subsequent course should offer more granular content, each focussing on a dedicated subject matter.
According to our “Milestone Deliverables” implementation methodology, the 4 courses that comprise the core team training program include:
Course 1: Overview Session, ERP System Theory and Specific Application
In these sessions, the core team members are trained on the general theories relating to the ERP system. They are also provided overview training on the interrelationships of the different software modules that collectively comprise the ERP software environment.
Course 2: Navigation Session
In these sessions, the core team members participate in hands-on software training. The goal is for the members to learn how to manipulate fields and navigate the screens, forms and sessions.
Course 3: Functional Training
In these sessions, the core team is split into groups representing their respective functional departments. Each sub-group is trained on the specific system modules that relate to their department. For example, the supply chain team members will be trained on planning, purchasing and inventory control (among other things).
Course 4: Administrative Training
In these sessions, the core team members are trained on concepts relating to software administration, including: application of patches, upgrades, and security access, among other things.
With the core team members trained as IT system experts, they’re ready to tackle the implementation.
In next week’s ERP implementation tip, I discuss mapping – the process by which the core team adapts the current business processes to the new IT system.
Good luck with your ERP implementation projects!
Your POV (post comments below)
- How long was the core team training phase of your ERP implementation project?
- Was the training effective?
- What were some of the biggest hurdles?
In this series of weekly ERP project management tips, we walk you through an ERP implementation project using Pemeco’s “Milestone Deliverables” project management methodology.
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