The Future of Talent Development and How to build a training library for ERP onboarding

As construction supply businesses embrace digital transformation, ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems have become foundational tools for managing operations, from inventory and order processing to finance and reporting. But the success of an ERP implementation isn’t just about the software—it’s about how well your people use it.

That’s where talent development comes in. And looking ahead, companies that invest in structured, self-guided, and role-specific ERP training will have a serious advantage.

Here’s a look at how talent development is evolving—and how to build a practical, scalable training library to support ERP onboarding now and into the future.

The Shift in Talent Development

Traditional training approaches—classroom sessions, one-time workshops, and outdated manuals—are no longer enough. Today’s workforce, especially younger employees, expect:

On-demand learning they can access when and where they need it

Role-specific content that applies directly to their job

Interactive formats that go beyond PowerPoint

Continuous development that supports long-term growth, not just day-one onboarding

As the workforce evolves, so must your training strategy.

Why a Training Library is Essential for ERP Success

ERP systems touch nearly every part of your business—but no two users interact with it in exactly the same way. That’s why a structured training library is essential. It allows new hires and current employees to access relevant, consistent, and repeatable training materials tailored to their role.

Done right, a training library becomes a key part of your talent development strategy—reducing errors, speeding up onboarding, and empowering employees to become more efficient, independent users.

Step-by-Step: How to Build a Training Library for ERP Onboarding

• Identify Key User Roles and Workflows

Start by mapping out the different user groups in your ERP system. Examples might include:

Yard and warehouse teams

Inside sales or order entry

Purchasing and procurement

Accounting and finance

Branch managers or leadership

For each role, define the core ERP tasks they need to perform daily, weekly, or occasionally. This creates the framework for your training content.

• Break Training Into Modules

Rather than long, one-size-fits-all training sessions, break content into small, focused modules. Each module should cover one key process or function, such as:

Logging in and navigating the dashboard

Creating a sales order

Receiving inventory into the system

Generating a purchase order

Running a basic report

Shorter modules improve retention and make it easier for users to revisit training as needed.

• Choose the Right Formats

A strong ERP training library includes a mix of formats to fit different learning styles and contexts:

Video walk-throughs with screen recordings and voiceovers

Step-by-step guides with annotated screenshots

Interactive simulations or click-through demos (if available)

Quick-reference sheets for use on the job

Live training recordings for users who missed sessions

Make sure everything is mobile-friendly and easy to access for employees on the move.

• Make It Easy to Find and Use

Organization is key. Structure your library so users can easily find what they need, when they need it. Use clear folder names and tags like:

By Role: “Yard Team,” “Sales,” “Accounts Payable”

By Task: “Create Quote,” “Adjust Inventory,” “Apply Payment”

By System Area: “Orders,” “Inventory,” “Reporting”

Host your library on a platform that supports version control and is accessible across branches—whether that’s an internal intranet, learning management system (LMS), or shared drive.

• Keep It Updated

ERP processes evolve, and so should your training. Assign ownership for keeping modules up to date with software updates, process changes, or new features. Regular reviews ensure your library remains accurate and useful.

• Tie Training to Onboarding and Performance

Integrate ERP training into your broader onboarding process. Use checklists or quizzes to confirm that new hires complete essential modules, and track their progress in your HR or LMS system.

For existing staff, link ERP training completion to performance metrics or career development goals. This reinforces learning as part of the bigger picture.

Looking Ahead: Build for Flexibility and Scale

The future of talent development in the construction supply industry is digital, role-based, and self-paced. Building a strong ERP training library now not only helps with current onboarding—it also sets the stage for smoother software rollouts, faster cross-training, and better long-term retention.

Companies that treat training as a strategic investment, not a last-minute task, will be the ones best positioned to grow—and adapt—as technology and workforce needs continue to evolve.

Final Thought

Your ERP system is only as strong as the people using it. A clear, well-organized training library doesn’t just help your employees—it helps your business run smoother, scale faster, and operate with fewer errors.

If you’re ready to build one, start with the tasks that matter most, keep it practical, and grow from there.