5 Tried and True Ways to Train Infor ERP Users

Implementing Infor ERP can be a difficult task because of the sheer size of the software packages. Something that is often overlooked, and more important than the technological implementation itself, is having a proper training program in place to transition your employees. Companies that invest less than 17% of their total ERP budget into training are much less likely to succeed. So with that in mind, here are 5 ways to better train your employees in Infor ERP.

Gartner Analysts talk about the benefits: “The benefits an organization plans to realize from a new ERP system will not materialize until users have embraced and are productive with the new applications and processes. ERP leaders should accelerate ERP adoption and productivity by following the best practices outlined in this research.”

1. Put Continuous Software Training at the Forefront

The biggest mistake that organizations make is that they do not adjust current training processes to reflect the change in technology. One reason for this is that organizations often treat ERP implementation as a one-time event, instead of as an ongoing business engagement. For many businesses, 25% of knowledge leakage is due to employee attrition, which can occur due to insufficient training.

ERP systems are constantly evolving and changing, so continuous training should be prioritized to match this fact. Continuous training improves employee knowledge retention, and keeps them adaptable to new software changes.


2. Enter Communication Channels Early and Often

The first step before creating a training program should involve planning and consultation. You should consult with other managers and employees to get a feel of what their expectations are. Surveys, questionnaires and group meetings are excellent methods of communication.

This ensures that employees will be less resistant to change, because they had a say in the process. It also allows you to create a better tailored training program. For example, if you determined that the majority of the end-users would prefer interactive, practical training, then you may put more effort into that facet of the plan.

3. Create Tailored Plans Based on Roles

While there is merit in teaching basic commands to all users, there is little point in teaching specialized skills to employees that will never use them. As such, you should consider each employee’s role and direct them into more specialized training. This will take more effort than just having a full team presentation, but it will pay off in the end. Your specialized employees, such as data analysts, marketers, customer representatives, and product managers, will have a stronger grasp in their specific area of interest.

4. Review and Adjust Training Methods Based on Feedback

Training does not exist in a vacuum, nor is it a one-sided affair that trainers direct towards their employees. Employees will usually be less receptive to action-based directives. Telling them why something is important will be more effective than simply how to do it. This allows employees to understand the long-term goals and benefits more clearly. Furthermore, you should seek to improve training methods whenever possible through feedback. Take cues on what employees are enjoying, and what methods aren’t producing results.

5. Seek Integrated Services that Can Be Used to Improve the Training Process

Services like WalkMe are an excellent starting point for improving your employee’s learning experience. At any moment, trainees can access direct step-by-step guidance windows that are specifically built for the Infor ERP platform. This specialized training can reduce the entry barriers for new users. It can also relieve your technical staff for more complicated issues, since the interactive tutorials can hold their hand for simpler tasks.

Gartner Analysts add this helpful tip: “Gartner Recommends: Improve training effectiveness by conducting reinforcement training three to four weeks after go-live.”

Improper training can lead to several negative effects to your organization. This includes wasted budget, an increase in user error, and decreased employee productivity. Treat Infor ERP training as an opportunity to connect with your employees better, rather than just implementing the technology correctly.
