The Importance of Systems-Specific Training: Enhancing Digital Transformation and ROI Written by Lyndsey Martin As businesses invest in digital technologies to remain competitive, the success of these initiatives often hinges on one critical factor: employee training. A well-executed training programme can accelerate user adoption and maximise the return on technology investments. However, not all training methods are created equal. When it comes to systems implementation, there are specific approaches that drive better outcomes. In this article, we explore what sets systems training apart from general training, why go-live workrooms are valuable, and how bespoke training materials can make all the difference in achieving success. What Differentiates a Systems Trainer from a General Trainer? System-specific trainers bring a depth of expertise that goes beyond general training knowledge. Unlike general trainers who may focus on broad skill development, systems trainers are specialists who understand the nuances of the technology being implemented. This expertise allows them to tailor training programmes to the exact needs of the business, ensuring that employees not only learn how to use new tools but also how to leverage them effectively within the organisation’s unique processes. For example, a general trainer might provide basic software instructions, whereas a systems trainer will guide employees through specific workflows relevant to their daily tasks, troubleshooting potential issues, and aligning the training with the organisation’s goals. This targeted approach reduces learning curves and ensures smoother transitions during system implementations. The Role of Go-Live Workrooms in System Implementation One of the most critical stages in a system rollout is the go-live phase, where the system officially becomes operational. This can be a high-pressure time for employees, as they are expected to apply their training to real-world situations immediately. To support this process, go-live workrooms have become an effective tool. A go-live workroom is a designated space where employees can receive real-time support as they transition to using the new system. Having experienced trainers on hand to answer questions, provide quick troubleshooting, and reinforce key training points creates a safety net that can prevent small issues from escalating into bigger problems. This proactive approach minimises downtime and user frustration, allowing the go-live phase to run more smoothly. Why Bespoke Training Material is More Effective than Off-the-Shelf Solutions Training materials that are specifically designed for an organisation’s processes and systems offer far more value than generic, off-the-shelf content. Bespoke materials capture the intricacies of a company’s workflows, industry requirements, and operational nuances, making them highly relevant to the users. This leads to greater engagement, as employees see the direct application of what they are learning to their daily responsibilities. In contrast, off-the-shelf materials often cover only the broad functions of a system without considering the specific ways it will be used within a given organisation. This can result in gaps in understanding, leaving employees ill-prepared to handle the unique demands of their roles. Tailored materials ensure that nothing is overlooked, making the training experience more comprehensive and impactful. Digital Agility and ROI: The Importance of Ongoing Training The research underpins the strong correlation between proper training and the successful realisation of returns on digital investments. A study conducted by Siphokazi Melamane in 2023, titled Assessing the impact of digital transformation on business performance in South Africa’s banking industry, examined how digital transformation affected the financial performance of traditional South African banks. The study revealed that in 2020, during the time of the pandemic, there was a significant increase in investment in digital technologies, rising from R19,474 billion in 2019 to R23,524 billion. However, the return on investment (ROI) during this time dropped sharply, from 6.18 in 2019 to a low of 2.59 in 2020. Despite the lower ROI in the initial year, by 2021, as employees became more familiar with the new systems and digital tools, the investment in technology decreased to R21,338 billion, but the ROI improved to 4.44. This suggests that while digital transformation requires significant upfront costs, the benefits are often realised over time as businesses and employees adapt to new processes. This data emphasises the importance of ongoing, comprehensive training in maximising the long-term success of digital transformation projects. It highlights that training is not a one-off event but a continuous process critical for improving digital agility and ensuring that organisations fully realise the benefits of their technological investments. The Correlation Between Training and Project Success The success of a system implementation project is closely tied to how well employees are trained. Research by Dagnew Gebrehiwot Giday and Elantheraiyan P. on training and employee performance found that well-executed training programmes significantly boost job commitment, productivity, and teamwork. The study concluded that the availability of tailored training resources and an accurate needs assessment play critical roles in enhancing employee performance during major organisational shifts like digital transformation. By investing in training that aligns with the specific needs of their employees and business, organisations can maximise the impact of their digital transformation efforts, ensuring that technology investments deliver sustainable, long-term benefits. Conclusion Effective training is essential for any organisation undergoing a digital transformation. Systems trainers offer specialised knowledge that goes beyond general training, helping employees overcome the complexities of new technology with confidence. The use of go-live workrooms ensures employees have support during critical rollout periods, while bespoke training materials capture the unique needs of the business, leading to greater engagement and better outcomes. Furthermore, research highlights the importance of ongoing training in driving digital agility and achieving higher ROI from technology investments. By prioritising tailored, system-specific training, organisations can ensure that their digital transformation initiatives not only succeed but continue to deliver value over time. Implementing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems requires effective training to ensure successful user adoption. We deliver tailored ERP System Training Solutions to equip your team with the skills and knowledge to leverage your ERP system fully. Contact us to learn how we can help your organisation with its digital transformation. Contact Us
September 17, 2024