For many companies, training goes hand-in-hand with the implementation process when beginning to use a new type of software solution. Employees learn how the system works from experts, the employer is coached on how the solution will best serve their business and before long, everyone is so comfortable with the new system they could use it in their sleep.
But what happens as the company grows, and new employees are brought on, or as staff leave and are replaced? It’s often the task of long-standing employees to train new recruits which could lead to vital information unintentionally being omitted; best practice workflows, or handy shortcuts within the system, could get forgotten about as time goes on. Additionally, as the software is updated, how can the employer be sure that the staff are using all the new features effectively, to truly maximise the success of the solution?
As businesses grow, it’s vital that employers dedicate time and budget to ongoing software training for their staff, so that new starters – or incumbent employees who may be in need of a refresher – can effectively utilise, clearly understand and work towards maximising the operational impact of the software solution.
Utilise
Product training could incorporate hands-on sessions with expert trainers, allowing the employees to learn through demonstrations and use-case scenarios, ensuring staff and system users have the knowledge to be able to work effectively on the system from day one.
Understand
Trainers are also able to provide a detailed, in-depth breakdown of the features within the solution and show how each one has been developed to help employees ease the pressures of day-to-day working. Staff who appreciate the full functionality their system has to offer are able to use these tools to maximum effect, leading to a more efficient response to everyday tasks.
Maximise
Once staff are able to successfully work with the software system, use of the product becomes a lot more intuitive; employees who are well trained are best placed to manipulate the system for their own needs and the needs of the business. Staff who know the software inside and out are able to work towards creative problem solving and help promote best practice throughout the business.
When working with a supplier of software solutions, it’s important to make sure that product training features heavily in their offering. Initial training following implementation is crucial, but in order to sustain this momentum and enable staff to remain engaged and effective, employers should focus on the future and consider an investment strategy for product training throughout their partnership with the supplier.