The Importance of Ongoing Software Training in the Workplace

When it comes to the implementation and configuration of software, like the TechnologyOne ERP solution, and business processes, one of the most overlooked aspects is the provision of ongoing training for the end users (employees). While the standard introductory training and manuals are great at teaching users how to get started and to accomplish specific tasks, the information provided can very quickly become outdated as new configurations are added or as business processes change.

Training in the workplace is about so much more than being able to use the software; it’s a critical piece in the orchestration of internal talent and resourcing that will help the business reach its organisational goals.

If a workplace doesn’t have adequate training on offer, it runs the risk of staff becoming disengaged from the software as they struggle to understand the function with which they are being tasked, or the overall process with which the function contributes. This can lead to criticism of the system, and in extreme cases, a move to replace it with another system perceived to be better.

Providing ongoing training on both system functionality and business processes provides long-term benefits to the organisation, thus accelerating a return on investment. Throughout this article, we’re going to dive deep into the ways in which ongoing software training positively impacts workplace productivity, increases employee satisfaction, and accelerates return on investment.

The Benefits of Ongoing Software Training in the Workplace

The importance of supporting employees through ongoing software training can’t be understated. When regular, ongoing training is provided, employees are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to perform their jobs effectively, while giving them the opportunity to improve the quality of their work and boost productivity across the organisation.

Acceptance of the System

It doesn’t matter how user-friendly software is, when a process or way of doing work is changed, there needs to be a well-communicated transition period. Training employees to use new software makes the transition much easier, and will enable organisations to get the most out of the software which they’ve invested in.

Beyond initial introductory training, ongoing training becomes important as it enables staff to really take ownership of their functional area. In today’s technologically-advanced world, each software update provides companies with increasingly powerful tools if used in the right hands. Therefore, ongoing training is key to ensuring acceptance of new software by all users.

Improved Productivity

A lot of the time, the perceived productivity gains of a new software system and/or process aren’t realised. This is due to a lack of training provided to users.

According to IBM, providing ongoing training and access to reference resources has been found to increase productivity and performance by 14%. Additionally, training can also increase employee independence by enabling them with adequate knowledge to do their job. Staff who understand how to use systems will be more efficient, which naturally leads to better productivity.

Business Process Improvement and Reduced Costs

When employees understand the capabilities of a system and are able to troubleshoot problems (rather than seeking external support), organisations are able to reduce costs associated with executing external procedures.

By providing ongoing training that empowers staff, they are better placed to identify areas for business process improvement. This means saving money long-term and potentially even off-setting costs associated with technical training by bringing technical support in-house.

Reduced Risk – Identifying the Strengths and Weaknesses

Engaging in ongoing training is a great way to identify any skills gaps. Without regular training in place, it’s difficult to know where employees stand with regards to their work preparedness.

A common scenario in relation to software adoption is that employees may face a problem when using it. In such a case, despite knowing that the problem exists, it can be difficult to make the right decisions to solve the problem, making it increasingly difficult to understand why and where the problem is stemming from.

When regular, ongoing training is a common practice, it becomes easier to identify any issues staff are facing while using the software. In the long-term, this training ensures that staff are following proper procedures when performing tasks within the system, thus resulting in risk reduction.

Employee Satisfaction and Improved Morale

There’s no denying it, struggling with day-to-day tasks is a fast way to becoming frustrated. This can eventually lead to poor productivity and lack of job satisfaction.

On the other hand, staff who are well-trained and have an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the systems and processes used have ample opportunity for professional development, which increases the likelihood of retention and improves morale.

By ensuring employees have regular and relevant training that enables them to update their essential skills, organisations can rest assured knowing that their staff are being kept interested and motivated.

Does your organisation have TechnologyOne training requirements? Contact Lánluas to discuss your specific needs.

The Lánluas Philosophy

Most enterprise systems implementations fail to deliver meaningful change, either never taking hold at all or quickly losing momentum. Our focus is to help our clients to derive value from their investments in TechnologyOne software business systems, helping to turn recommended solutions into concrete performance improvement.

We work closely with our clients, across all levels of the organisation, beginning with an in-depth executive discussion on direction and strategic imperatives. Our consultants then work with our client’s subject matter experts, functional and operational teams to build the capabilities, systems and processes needed to deliver long-term impact.

Want to know more? Discover our enterprise system solutions.