The Value of Pre-Go Live Training in Ensuring ERP Success

Written by Lyndsey Martin

In the realm of modern business operations, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are the backbone that orchestrates a multitude of functions seamlessly. As organisations embark on the journey of adopting a new ERP system, the spotlight shines brightly on the critical period of transitioning from the old to the new—a phase known as the “Go Live.” The success of this transition is often determined by the level of preparedness and training that takes place before the actual Go Live date.

At Can!do, we understand that the key to a smooth Go Live is equipping your team with the right knowledge and skills well in advance. This preparation involves a well-crafted training strategy that spans across different methods, including classroom, online, and dummy training. In this article, we’ll delve into the value of pre-Go Live training, how it mitigates risks, supports change management, and ensures sustainable success for your ERP system.

Pre-Go Live Training: Laying the Foundation for Success!

1. Classroom and Online Training:

To ensure a comprehensive understanding of the new ERP system, classroom and or online training is essential, depending on the geographical structure of your business. Classroom sessions provide an interactive environment for learners to grasp concepts with instructor lead training, while online training or virtual instructor led training offer accessibility to users in various geographical locations. The interactive approach we developed at Can!do with these training sessions, ensures that everyone is on the same page before Go Live.

2. Dummy and Test Mode Training and Understanding System Changes:

The concept of “dummy training” may sound peculiar, but it’s a valuable approach. Creating a safe environment where users can experiment, make mistakes, and understand how the system works fosters confidence. This practice also enables users to grasp the upcoming changes, navigate potential pitfalls, and appreciate the system’s capabilities.

Test mode training provides an opportunity for people to use the new ERP system in the way that they will, going forward, without making potential mistakes on the live system. This confirms that people in organisations are ready to work with the new ERP system.

Minimising Risks and Ensuring Accuracy.

3. Avoiding Inaccuracies on the Live System:

The stakes are high when it comes to ERP systems, as the information entered is often crucial for operations. Pre-Go Live training helps eliminate the risk of users inadvertently entering inaccurate data on the live system. By familiarising users with the new processes and workflows, they become adept at avoiding costly mistakes and ensuring data integrity from the outset.

4. The Freeze on Go Live and Beyond:

Imagine the Go Live day as the culmination of weeks or months of hard work. Pre-Go Live training empowers users with the knowledge they need, preventing the system from being a daunting unknown. By providing a firm foundation, the transition to the new ERP system becomes a strategic step rather than a leap into the abyss.

The Role of Change Management and Communication

5. Change Management and User Adoption:

Change is often met with resistance, especially when it involves adopting new systems. A solid pre-Go Live training strategy is more than just technical—it’s about change management. By effectively communicating the reasons for the change and how it aligns with business goals, resistance is reduced. Users understand the value and importance of embracing the new system.

6. Leveraging Digital Adoption Platforms (DAP):

DAP tools, such as walkthroughs and in-app guidance, play a pivotal role in enhancing user adoption. Pre-Go Live training can include introducing users to these tools. This approach eases the transition by providing users with contextual, real-time guidance as they navigate the new system.

Strategic Planning for Sustainable Success

7. Beyond Go Live: Sustaining Training:

Pre-Go Live training isn’t just a one-time effort—it lays the foundation for sustainable learning. The knowledge gained during this phase paves the way for continued success as the system evolves. Regular refresher training sessions and access to DAP tools ensure that users stay updated and proficient in utilizing the ERP system’s full potential.

8. Training for Role Changes:

With a robust training strategy in place, facilitating seamless transitions for role changes become efficient processes. This minimises disruptions and ensures that the system continues to deliver value through the changes in processes that took place.

In Conclusion!

Pre-Go Live training is not just an optional step in an ERP implementation process; it’s the cornerstone of a successful transition. By investing in a comprehensive training strategy that includes classroom and/or online training, dummy exercises, test mode exercises, and introducing users to DAP tools, businesses can ensure that their team is well-prepared for the new system. The value of mitigating risks, facilitating change management, and planning for sustained success cannot be overstated.

At Can!do, we recognize that every business is unique. Our approach to training goes beyond the conventional to tailor solutions that align with your organization’s goals. The result? A workforce that is confident, capable, and ready to embrace the exciting challenges of a new ERP system, making the journey to Go Live an empowered and triumphant experience.

To learn more about how Can!do can transform your pre-Go Live training strategy, visit our website today and explore our personalised solutions tailored to your needs. Our expertise is your advantage in navigating the intricacies of ERP system transitions.