Rolling out an ERP system is a major milestone. But even the most powerful platform won’t deliver results if your team doesn’t know how to use it properly. For building materials businesses—where every quote, delivery, and inventory scan matters—poor onboarding can lead to costly delays and errors.
Here are the top training and onboarding mistakes companies make when launching a new ERP, and what you can do to avoid them.
❌ Mistake 1: One-Size-Fits-All Training
Why it hurts: Yard managers, sales reps, and back-office staff use the ERP differently. Generic training wastes time and leaves critical gaps.
✅ How to avoid it:
Develop role-based training sessions. Show sales teams how to manage quotes and pricing, while operations staff focus on order fulfillment and inventory workflows.
❌ Mistake 2: Overloading Users on Day One
Why it hurts: Trying to teach every feature up front can overwhelm users, especially those not used to digital systems.
✅ How to avoid it:
Take a phased approach. Start with core functions, then layer in advanced features over time. Think “learn what you need now, expand later.”
❌ Mistake 3: Skipping Hands-On Practice
Why it hurts: Watching a demo isn’t the same as doing the work. Without real practice, users forget or misuse the system.
✅ How to avoid it:
Use realistic scenarios and hands-on workshops. Let staff enter test orders, pick lists, or deliveries so they build confidence in a no-risk environment.
❌ Mistake 4: Ignoring Feedback During Training
Why it hurts: Users might not speak up during formal sessions—but misunderstandings or frustrations will show up later in errors or resistance.
✅ How to avoid it:
Encourage feedback loops. Assign “super users” at each location who collect questions, report issues, and guide their peers after go-live.
❌ Mistake 5: No Ongoing Support After Go-Live
Why it hurts: Most problems don’t surface during training—they show up weeks later when users are on their own.
✅ How to avoid it:
Set up post-launch check-ins, quick reference guides, and in-system tooltips. Offer refresher sessions after 30/60/90 days.
❌ Mistake 6: Not Accounting for Different Tech Comfort Levels
Why it hurts: Some team members may be fast learners, while others need more time—especially in warehouse or delivery roles.
✅ How to avoid it:
Be patient. Offer visual guides, mobile-friendly interfaces, and in-person help where needed. One-size doesn’t fit all—especially with tech.
✅ Bonus Tip: Celebrate Small Wins
Recognize early adopters and power users. Share success stories like “First order processed without paperwork!” to boost morale and show progress.
Final Thought:
Your ERP is only as powerful as your people’s ability to use it. Avoid these common onboarding mistakes, and you’ll unlock the full potential of your system—faster, smoother, and with fewer headaches.
