19 Best Expert Simple Tricks For New ERP Users
- Learn SAP productivity tips
- Make Smart Pre-Implementation Choices
- Form a user community
- Enlarge the target market
- Plan a phased approach
- Make Use of Help Resources
- Give preference to integrating departments over customization
- Get to know the start to finish process
- Do they require ERP?
- Select an ERP system that is capable of adapting to new technologies
- Pick The Right ERP Partner
- Have an organized and established team for your project
- Make the learning of ERP fun
- It's important to understand that ERP is not a tool that will make your life easier
- Don’t skip the training
- Identify needs and gaps between the user and the software rather than creating a list of tasks
- Always take notes as you go
- Avoid unnecessary customization and stick to the basics
- Enter quality data to get the most out of your ERP system
- Choose the right ERP software
- Frequently Asked Questions
Learn SAP productivity tips
There are many tips and tricks to be more productive using SAP, such as shortcodes to use in the SAP GUI, or keyboard shortcuts to navigate faster between the screens. Learning about basics of SAP is necessary to be efficient like the best consultants.
If you are wondering is ERP easy to learn then the answer is yes, all it takes is following the right ERP online courses and getting the skills you need.
Make Smart Pre-Implementation Choices
To avoid a disastrous ERP implementation, I would encourage you as a CEO not to make rash pre-implementation decisions. Choosing the best ERP solution for your business requires research. Ascertain that the ERP software your company chooses meets your corporate goals. Defining your functional and technical requirements is the first step in a rigorous RFP process with software vendors. Cost-value analysis should be used to make decisions, not just spending. The type of deployment, whether cloud, on-premise, or a hybrid two-tier solution, is critical since your organization must be able to manage ongoing support, maintenance, and charges.
Form a user community
I'd advocate forming a community among the system's end-users in the run-up to, or soon after, an ERP rollout. Give them a place to talk about the problems they're having and fresh discoveries that will make their lives simpler. I've been astounded by some of the information sharing and inventions that may occur when this atmosphere is created. Yammer (or another workplace social network platform) is an excellent technique to facilitate ad-hoc knowledge sharing and Q&A conversations. You could also wish to plan round-table discussions or 'open office hours with the project's power users or important consultants. Encourage users to attend those meetings not just with inquiries, but also with the information they can offer or demonstrate to other users.
Look for a user group that isn't affiliated with your company. User organizations for many software providers host Q&A forums, seminars, and conferences. I've discovered that user group members are quite educated about the systems and have excellent suggestions for how to effectively use them, as well as other relevant technological solutions.
Enlarge the target market
There will be colleagues and peers who are not directly associated with the JPDs who are subject matter experts. Throughout the JPD cycle, the core project team member should schedule a time to debate and evaluate significant design decisions with a larger group. They should also explore ways to participate in specific JPD sessions. Once the design is complete, essential functional aspects may be considered. Smaller 'Design Validation' sessions or just during a CRP might be used for this. CRP should be cross-functional and end-to-end, whereas design validation sessions might take place inside a single functional workstream.
Plan a phased approach
An ERP project is a major endeavor that will affect many aspects of a company's operations. If too many areas are affected at the same time, the firm may be unable to cope. If this occurs, employees will be hesitant to abandon the previous system and their established habits. A staged approach could be preferable. See if you can divide the project into manageable chunks. You may need to create temporary linkages between the old and new systems, but it's usually worth it if it means less downtime for the company.
The following are some of the advantages of taking a phased approach to ERP implementation:
- After Go-Live, it's possible to identify functionality and process improvements.
- Employees can handle changes in gradual steps over time, allowing for buy-in, training on new tools, and the sudden realization of advantages.
- It allows for the testing and resolution of problems as they arise.
- If something goes wrong, it only affects the areas of the firm that are in a given phase.
- As each area is introduced, it receives more focused attention.
- Less risky — it's simple to roll back if something isn't operating properly or at all if it's not implemented across the board.
- Less stress on the project team - enables for planning and resource distribution.
Make Use of Help Resources
ERP software comes with built-in manuals to help you with whenever you need them. Some people may dislike reading manuals, but their purpose is to help and make you more comfortable using ERP software. By accessing help, you will stay ahead of the game and understand what to do at any time. You will not get stuck, and you may also teach some of your colleagues, improving your understanding of the ERP software.
Give preference to integrating departments over customization
I would suggest giving preference to integrating departments over customization to make your ERP solution an efficient one because customization of ERP totally depends on your objectives which is a complex procedure but integration is a simple way of adding features in the toolkit to make the processes easy. Customizing your ERP can be very valuable and useful for you, but it can also add additional costs and an extended deadline. On the other hand, the integration of different departments improves efficiency.
Implementing this trick is very easy. As a new user of ERP, you just need to understand the objectives of a project. For example, if a project requires inventory reports of warehouses matched with the delivery reports of supply, you can simply integrate these two departments from your toolkit without spending time to make a customized report.
Get to know the start to finish process
On account of MM, from the time there is a need to buy something ( how to decide requirements in ERP), to buying and putting away and assembling and selling a completed product and how this is connected to costs, where those expenses are recorded and how does the organization has any idea about the amount they need to offer the completed product to get a sensible net revenue.
When you associate every one of the lines in the riddle and understand the end-to-end process including FI MM integrations, this will make you substantially more sure as a new user. Simply looking through the web when issues come up will make you a decent technical support individual, however not a specialist.
Do they require ERP?
The new ERP users should choose the right ERP software to thrive in their new role. ERP software provides numerous benefits to the users, such as lower operational costs, enhanced productivity, integrated business procedures, data security, and maximized reporting abilities. Therefore, users must select the right ERP software, and while doing so, it’s necessary to consider the following:
- Do they require ERP?
- Which ERP software do they need?
- What functions do they require?
- How will they implement those ERP solutions?
With top-notch ERP software, the users can make a great decision in selecting which software is best suited for them. However, the ERP is made up of numerous processes which are based on the demands of different departments. Choosing the right software is always beneficial for ERP users as it helps them achieve a new designation in their career.
Select an ERP system that is capable of adapting to new technologies
Every day, people improve all aspects of their lives as a result of technological advancements. It is then very critical that you select an ERP system compatible with new technologies—both today's and in the future. You can maintain your success by utilizing a system that is capable of keeping up with changes in all businesses.
You can best apply this trick by looking for consulting firms to help you select the right ERP software that will be capable of adapting to technologies. For example, if you have an Oracle cloud system, you should look for an Oracle cloud consulting firm that specializes in this product and service. The primary goal of an ERP within an organization is to accelerate procedures. As a result, if you lack planning or recognize your company's core values, it may not fit your goals. The benefits of using the right software include integrated business processes, lower operational costs, enhanced reporting capabilities, increased productivity, and data security.
Pick The Right ERP Partner
Your ERP partner is also playing a vital to a successful ERP implementation. Research and pick an ERP partner that not only has the expertise and understanding in your industry but also aligns with your organization's overall goals and values. When you are choosing a partner, analyze and interview their client references, and confirm that they understand how your ERP system will help your business operations. Finally, verify whether they can furnish training and support after your software goes live.
Have an organized and established team for your project
One of the most significant decisions that one can make in growing up the business is choosing the best ERP system. But, some get confused over the process of implementation. Here are some of the ways to make them easier and better:
- Have an organized and established team for your project. These members may include someone from the senior level, key employees, business process owners, and so on.
- Map out the process beforehand. Understand how it is going to work for you before implementing this into your business. Be sure to document the whole process so that the business partner can take a look at it.
- Prioritize the requirements and start from the most needed one. Add bonus features at the end and prioritize essential functions firsthand. Make sure that the requirements you chose are precise and scoping. Full post-implementation functionality shall be achieved only when you get the scope of the ERP program correctly.
- Plan in advance. Critical employees need to carry out their daily tasks and work for the program simultaneously, which might be troublesome. So, give them sufficient time to complete their work.
Make the learning of ERP fun
Making the learning of ERP fun is the best trick for a new ERP user to thrive in his new role. This theory is appropriate for learning everything. Whatever we learn, when we think it a burden, it becomes an issue. But when something is learned being interested or with an example, that becomes easier to understand. A new ERP user can play games with ERP features like his colleagues. He can demonstrate how the company will improve with this ERP. He will try to create attractive things with ERP so that employees and the company praise him. He may try to plan new plans where employees can save time. Better learning the features and tools by discussing with others for learning faster. He can teach all those to his close people whenever he gets time. After all, playing with ERP is the best way. Don’t make it a burden, make it entertainment. That will be the fastest method for a new user to learn it properly.
It's important to understand that ERP is not a tool that will make your life easier
It's a tool that will allow you to do your job better. It's a tool that will allow you to be more efficient. It's a tool that will allow you to make better decisions. It's a tool that will allow you to be more valuable to your company. It's a tool that will allow you to grow your career. It's a tool that will allow you to be more successful.
One simple trick that would help a new ERP user to thrive in his new role or career is to create an ERP training plan. This plan should include the tasks that the user needs to complete and the time frame in which they need to complete them. It is important to create a plan that is specific to the user's role or career.
Don’t skip the training
This is not something that employees will just pick up! There is so much to learn. Undertrained employees might not even know what they are missing! They may end up doing things so backwards that in the end, things will take much longer to actually finish. It will be well worth the money spent if you properly train in all staff.
Identify needs and gaps between the user and the software rather than creating a list of tasks
A simple trick that would help a new ERP user to thrive in his new role or career would be to identify needs and gaps between the user and the software rather than creating a list of tasks. When you can't use the software effectively, it's counterproductive to make lists of things you need. Once you've identified your needs, it's easier to ask hard questions and seek direct answers from support. In addition, training budgets are often tied to key project accomplishments rather than salaries. A list of tasks that don't relate to your goals won't resonate with decision-makers. A user can thrive in a new role or career by making small changes. They should learn their coworkers' names, what each of their coworkers does, work on relationships with them, and try to bond with everyone as much as possible. This helps the user be more aware of what is going on around them and prevents them from feeling left out; some people have difficulty making friends or become uncomfortable when working at a new job. Implementing an ERP system is a big undertaking, with many moving parts and several initial challenges. It is critical to get managers and users on board; otherwise, the business will lack adoption or use. Implementing a new ERP can be daunting, but it's not impossible. Managers and users must understand the importance of being part of the change. They need to feel comfortable with the process. Implementing an ERP is often compared to surgery—it's painful in the beginning but leads to a better outcome as you move forward.
Always take notes as you go
For new ERP users, there’s only one simple trick I could give for them to thrive in their new role - always take notes as you go. When you’re wading through the waters of a full pledged ERP system, you’ll definitely find yourself having lots of questions, unfamiliar phrases, and complex processes. Therefore it’s crucial to write them down so you can review them anytime and familiarize everything. As a new ERP user, you’ll be bombarded with lots of information and processes. The learning curve won’t be easy. And “taking in” all of those things would be next to impossible. This is where your notes come in handy.
Every process might be confusing and hard at first, but you’ll surely get better at it as you go. You just need to stick to the most common tasks first. If you’re in doubt, you can always ask questions or use the Help resources. The key here is to take everything slowly and seriously.
And in just no time, you’ll just find yourself excelling in your new role.
Avoid unnecessary customization and stick to the basics
In my opinion, avoiding unnecessary customization and sticking to the basics can help a new ERP user fully use the software.
The system can be customized but the key is to make as little changes as possible while also fulfilling the needs of your business goals. Organizational functions should be the main focus if one is looking for successful application of the ERP model.
How can it be applied easily?The best way to apply said method is to rely on technical expertise. Most companies and organizations do not have innate knowledge of ERPs.
Information consultants should be hired for this purpose to guide the staff and make implementation as easy as possible.
Furthermore, the consultant has industrial experience and understanding that comes with immaculate IT knowledge. It can aid in supporting an organization from planning the minor details to ensure nothing goes wrong.
Enter quality data to get the most out of your ERP system
Quality data is one of the most valuable assets to any business, customer, supplier or distributor. Data should be accurate, up to date, relevant, easily convertible, and valuable.
Poor quality data will lead to ineffective decision making, increased operational costs, and customer dissatisfaction. Moreover, data quality issues in one module will impact the quality of the information across other modules.
To apply the trick of entering quality data, keep in mind the six dimensions of data quality; timeliness, completeness, consistency, validity, integrity, and accuracy. The failure to fix data quality issues will lead to the failure of ERP implementation.
Choose the right ERP software
New ERP system is a set of integrated applications or modules for managing a company's core business processes, including finance and accounting, supply chain, human resources, purchasing, sales, inventory management, and more.
For any new ERP user out there looking to thrive in their new role, a crucial yet straightforward trick is to choose the right ERP software. This decision can be overwhelming, but it is critical to do your due diligence and arrive at it. ERP software offers various benefits like lower operational costs, enhanced reporting capabilities, integrated business processes and increased data security. With so much on the line, you must go for the right software to thrive in your career.
When selecting your ERP software, ask yourself the following questions:
- What does your firm need ERP?
- What problems do you seek to solve through an ERP system?
- How will you implement the ERP solutions?
- What do you hope to learn from the software?
If you implement the right ERP software, you’ll be better able to achieve business success. ERP users spend nearly their entire workday using the ERP software, so they must be equipped with in-depth knowledge regarding its usage. This will allow them to work efficiently and become true experts in their field.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are some simple yet effective tips for new ERP users to enhance their user experience?
- Effective tips for new ERP users include familiarizing themselves with key functionalities, utilizing built-in help resources, engaging in training sessions, and starting with basic modules before advancing.