How can you manage resistance to ERP software training?

The best way to start the benefits from the operation reports such as analytical reports which deals with the businesses KPI, measuring the effectiveness and efficiency of the process. Show and tell what is the gap in current process which is not visible to it user and ERP solution bring in business operation. Try to talk business language instead of ERP tool specific language, try to bring the values of the ERP product. Talk about business current challenges and how the ERP tool will solve it effectively. Do effective conversations..Interest will start pouring and eventually team will show interest in learning the ERP tool.

In my experience, establishing a change management team/capability is always a good option. Get a change manager that will help manage the end user adoption process. From mobilizing or planning to go-live/launch!

The most effective approach is to start from the bottom and work your way up. Demonstrate the time saved by the new process and the ease of using the new tool. This approach can make a significant difference for business users. Instead of presenting the benefits in a broad sense, it's important to tailor the advantages to specific departments. Emphasize the collective benefits of streamlining all processes and addressing gaps to gain the support of management. Training is crucial, and it's essential to assess the impact of change management from the perspective of business users, helping them understand both the effects and benefits.

Show them how they can see the other data in the system data and how by having real time information they can make their own jobs easy. Show them the value of master data and data from the prior transactions making its way into their processes at work.

For ERP implementations, I usually recommend that identified stakeholders - sponsors, process owners, supper/key users, subject matter experts and end-users are engaged from pre-awareness stage. A good way to start is to use ADKAR Change Methodology or any suitable tool on this journey. Creating awareness, providing training and getting users buy-in and commitment is very important.

The ERP user training session needs to include hands-on experience about configuration and master data maintenance, processing of different transaction types and facilities for enquiry and reporting. With the help of the instructor, the learner finds out how to use the ERP for completing the tasks performed in the work environment. The learning outcome is a trained employee motivated and ready to start using the ERP once it is deployed with some support at the beginning.

The ability to answer the question: “what’s in it for me” can break or make a project. Make plans and budget provisions at planning phase. Link milestones to rewards. Celebrate successes, provide snacks, lunches, organize team hangouts and pay for certifications for project team members.

Empower site/business leadership through Org Change Management: 1) Once the site business leadership is involved and empowered right from day 1 or right from project initiation phase, these leaders carry the torch and ensure that their respective teams are also involved towards success 2) Many projects/programs get “Organizational change Management” late in the game when trainings or test phase is approaching, leaving them with very little time to campaign for the change and get the passion injected in the business community. A project can involve them from day 1, and if the project commercials don’t allow from day 1 (as these skill sets are expensive) then these change champions can be added as early as “explore phase”