The implementation of a new computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) can be a challenging task for any organization. While the benefits of a CMMS are clear, such as improved asset performance, increased productivity, and enhanced data visibility, the success of a CMMS implementation depends on how well the employees are trained and onboarded on the new system.
In this blog post, we’ll explore how to effectively train and onboard employees on a new CMMS system.
Develop a comprehensive training plan
Before implementing the new CMMS system, it’s essential to develop a comprehensive training plan that outlines the training requirements for employees. The plan should cover the purpose of the new system, how it works, and the benefits it offers. The training plan should also include the various roles and responsibilities of employees regarding the CMMS system. You should identify the various types of users and tailor the training approach to their specific roles and responsibilities.
Identify key stakeholders
The success of the CMMS depends on the participation of all employees. Therefore, it’s essential to identify key stakeholders who will champion the new system and provide leadership to other employees. These stakeholders should be people who are passionate about the CMMS system and understand its benefits. They should be involved in the training process and help to ensure that all employees are adequately trained.
Provide hands-on training
Hands-on training is the best way to learn about the CMMS system. It’s essential to provide employees with ample opportunities to practice using the new CMMS system. This can be done through online tutorials, live demonstrations, or workshops. Hands-on training is particularly important for employees who may not be comfortable with technology or have limited computer skills.
Highlight features
Highlight the standard features of CMMS that make tasks easier for employees. Make sure they master those features. Talk about the mobile capabilities, data tracking, and reduced workload. Use these features to provide positive reinforcement to employees – which in turn increases the adoption of the new CMMS system.
Make training materials available
It’s essential to make all training materials available to employees at any time. This includes video tutorials, user manuals, and other relevant documentation. By providing access to these materials, employees can refer to them when they need to refresh their memory or learn a new feature. Making training materials available online also ensures that employees can access them from anywhere, at any time.
Communicate the Benefits
Employees are more likely to embrace a new system if they understand how it will benefit them. Be sure to communicate the benefits of the new CMMS system to all employees. For example, the system may help them become more efficient in their job, reduce maintenance costs, or improve communication among team members. Communicating these benefits can help employees see the value in the new system and encourage them to use it.
Monitor progress
It’s important to monitor the progress of employees as they learn how to use the new CMMS system. This can be done by conducting periodic assessments to evaluate their understanding and ability to use the system. It’s also important to provide feedback and support to employees who may be struggling with the new system.
Provide ongoing support
Even after the initial training, it’s important to provide ongoing support to employees as they continue to use the new CMMS system. This support can come in the form of a help desk or an online support system. The support team should be available to answer questions and provide guidance whenever employees need it. Even when there is a new update or a feature change, your employees need some direction on how to use it.
Final point
Onboarding your employees into a CMMS system isn’t easy. No matter how simple your new CMMS system is, employees need ongoing support and training when they use an unknown area of the system. With a little bit of advanced planning and effort, employees can enjoy the benefits of increased productivity, improved performance, and enhanced data visibility that a reliable CMMS software offers. By this, you can ensure that the CMMS implementation process goes smoothly and the employees are happy with the change.