ERP User Adoption in Textile Industry: 5 Ways to Get Team Onboard
Studies show SMB’s (under $100 million in revenue) were slower in implementing their ERP than mid-sized businesses (between $100 million to $250 million in revenue), possibly due to less resources and expertise. These numbers indicate that ERP user adoption in textile industry is never an easy or a smooth process since the software is complex to handle at first.
This is one of the top ERP implementation challenges and it is an even bigger problem for businesses where the majority of staff and workers are undertrained for handling such software.
In an effort to bridge this gap, we are going to talk about 5 tips/methods you can use to ensure all team members have a complete understanding of the software. Training employees on ERP software also ensures that they are well-acquainted with their roles in its operation.
5 Ways to Ensure ERP User Adoption in Textile Industry
1] Communicate the Benefits Early and Clearly
One of the most important steps to getting your textile team onboard with a new ERP software is making sure they understand its benefits. Communication is key to overcoming ERP implementation challenges. Many employees might feel anxious about the new system, fearing that it will complicate their work or replace their role.
To ease these concerns, communicate the clear advantages the ERP software will bring, not only for the business but for their day-to-day tasks. For example, explain how ERP will simplify workflows, reduce repetitive tasks, and provide real-time insights that make decision-making easier. Highlight benefits like faster data entry, streamlined order tracking, and efficient inventory management.
2] Involve the Team in the Selection and Implementation Process:
When your team feels involved in the decision-making process, they are more likely to take ownership of the change. Invite key team members to participate in the selection process of the ERP software. Their insights on daily operations can help identify the right solution that meets the specific needs of your textile business.
During the implementation phase, gather feedback from employees who will be using the system. This involvement not only boosts morale but also ensures higher chances of ERP user adoption in the textile industry. Your employees will believe that the chosen ERP software aligns with the practical needs of the team.
3] Provide Comprehensive Training and Support:
An ERP software will seem complex at first, and staff will need time and guidance to become comfortable with it. Plan a structured program that is customized for training employees on ERP software. You can even have custom-made programs for different roles within the team.
For instance, the production team may need in-depth training on modules related to manufacturing processes, while the finance team may require a focus on accounting and inventory management features. Hands-on, role-based training helps employees understand how the ERP system will impact their specific tasks.
4] Set Realistic Expectations
During initial stages of onboarding your team, mistakes are bound to happen. The textile team will be trying to get a hold on the software, so setting realistic expectations for them will go a long way. Encourage patience and a willingness to learn, reminding the team that mastering the ERP software will take time.
As the textile team progresses through the onboarding stage, celebrate small wins. Whether it’s successfully completing the first production run with the ERP software or smoothly processing the first set of customer orders. Recognizing these achievements will help increasing ERP user adoption in the textile industry.
5] Appoint ERP Experts to Lead the Way
Recruiting an ERP expert to guide the textile team during onboarding process will be the best move to make to overcome ERP implementation challenges. An ERP expert will usually have years of understanding and experience with various ERP software solutions, so he/she will know how to guide the team through the entire process.
Hiring an ERP expert also helps the textile team to understand the product in an in-depth manner and make the right decisions along the way. For instance, team members can gain knowledge through the ERP expert rather than testing it out with the software themselves. This will optimize the whole onboarding process and provide the textile team a sense of direction to what they want to achieve.
Training employees on ERP software and getting your team onboard with a new system takes effort, patience, and clear communication. By explaining the benefits early, involving the team in decisions, and providing proper training, you can ease the transition.
Setting realistic expectations and appointing an ERP expert will further help ERP user adoption in textile industry. Remember, it’s normal for the team to take time to adjust, and recognizing their progress will keep morale high. With the right approach, your textile team will be confident and skilled in using the ERP system, making your business more efficient.
