For any new system to succeed, users must be thoroughly trained using a set of diverse and personalized training options.
Otherwise…
According to LexisNexis University’s research, proper training for new users leads to:
- 68% that use the product more efficiently
- 56% that use more product features/functions
- 87% that work more independently
These are promising stats that make for good business.
So, good education and training is common sense, right?
We wish.
Unfortunately, not all vendors place enough value on training new users on their system. They may only offer online or truncated training and skimp on guiding users through valuable practice sessions.
Companies have different learning needs, so it’s vital that software providers offer diverse, customizable training.
Be sure to ask these types of training questions of current and future software providers:
- How long does it take to train a new user on their system?
- How do they train this user (e.g., in-person, remotely, group settings or one-on-one)?
- Do they train new users with their own company’s data in a safe (beta type) environment (to protect their data from learning mistakes)?
- Do the providers offer diverse types of training (e.g., new hires vs. advanced users), or offer refresher or skill-specific courses?
- Can they create a new course specific to your company’s needs?
- Who teaches the courses? What’s their background and experience level?
Employees trained in person at your office demonstrate higher levels of confidence and competence in using accounting systems.
Typically, it takes around 7-10 days to thoroughly train new users on a system. This training time benefits your team the most when it’s in person at your office.
Here’s why:
- Trainers are able to observe your current processes and translate them into new processes based on best practices.
- Trainers assess your team’s learning styles and needs to customize the training to best suit them.
- Trainers build a stronger rapport, so your team feels more comfortable asking questions.
- Trainers create a safe practice environment where mistakes can be corrected and won’t compromise your data.
Sometimes, further down the road, users may need additional training.
Here are some questions to consider when reviewing additional software training options for you and your team:
- Do you need a knowledge refresher course?
- Do you need a cross-training course so that you can cover a colleague’s job during a planned vacation or an unexpected illness?
- Do you need to increase and advance your competency in the system?
- Do you need executive-level training?
- Do you need shorter, targeted, online training?
It’s crucial that software providers adapt and customize their training to address your needs.
It can take a lot of time to assess your software or to vet a new system. However, it’s worth investigating to make sure you’re getting the most from your software.
We’re always interested to hear more about how you’re solving your accounting software challenges. Click here to send us a message.
Lastly, if you’re feeling stuck or unsure of how to get the most from your software technology, please contact us to schedule a free consult.
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