No matter how good your software is, users need to know how it works and what it does. Therefore, any addition of an automated commercial tool must be accompanied by adequate training; Warehouse management system (WMS) software is no exception.
WMS software is a complete digital solution for manufacturing, retail, distribution and fulfillment companies. These automated tools track goods through all stages of the supply chain and provide businesses with insights into their operations.
The best WMS software allows businesses to streamline and scale their operations without necessarily increasing operational costs. But to do this, companies must organize quality training for their employees to optimize their features and benefits.
If you're wondering who is most qualified to do this, read on to take a closer look at the basics of WMS software training.
1. Who provides WMS software training?
The WMS software provider is the entity best qualified to provide training to its customers. Sometimes these sessions can be arranged for free if included in the purchase costs. Third-party consultants can be engaged when the client wants in-depth training on WMS software.
Software companies and consultants adhere to different training models, but most of them conduct on-site and off-site conferences and presentations about the system and how it works. Depending on the number of users and specific agreements with customers, the vendor may organize “superuser training,” where it brings together area managers with broader access to the software to then train their team.
Sometimes online seminars are available on the supplier's website, which can be useful, especially for large companies with multiple warehouses.
2. Who should participate in WMS software training?
Warehouse management system software is often used by personnel assigned to specific tasks in the storage area. Department managers or supervisors are often the first group of trainees and are expected to train others, for example, workers in the entry, exit, and order picking areas.
It is wise to organize periodic and comprehensive WMS software training for all staff, given the turnover rates in the industry. This allows employees to maximize their operations, regardless of their roles and assignments, which is the main goal of WMS software. Comprehensive training increases employee motivation and contributes to their efficiency. Knowing they have a chance to move up the ladder helps increase employee retention.
Additionally, training should include executives who may not necessarily use the tool on a daily basis but who need to understand its specific features and operations, such as reporting and data analysis.
Training should be practical and relevant, regardless of the targeted participants and advanced training technologies. It must address essential topics that resonate with staff wanting to increase their productivity and efficiency.
3. What is the best approach for WMS software training?
Learning preferences differ from person to person. But “super-user training” can be a common approach, because these mid-level employees have more access than other warehouse employees. Ideally, they also have more experience and can become more interested in the topics covered, unless their level of computer knowledge is low.
In large warehouses, hosting multiple sessions may be a good idea as long as these users pass on their knowledge to others using existing WMS tools. Ideally, sessions should be held on-site to facilitate hands-on training, which is undoubtedly more effective than off-site discussions. At the end of the training, organizers should measure the effectiveness of the training by asking participants for their feedback.
Offsite conferences can be booked when clients' staff have sufficient experience with WMS software. They can interact more effectively on gaps, share best practices, and provide valuable feedback to help improve or upgrade the tool.
4. When should WMS software training take place?
WMS software training should be carried out when the system is operational and the features and functionality are in place. Additionally, companies must address common challenges that can hinder training success.
Before the training, explain why the company needs the software and how it can use it to its advantage. By doing so, one can hope to reduce resistance and negative impressions regarding proposed operational changes.
And for how long ?
The duration of the training depends on the requirements of the company and the level of engagement and interactivity of the audience. Sessions can be divided into multiple sessions for inclusive presentations where the company prefers a reduced number of participants.
However, the biggest factors influencing training duration are the available software features and the operation of the warehouse. Basic systems can be completed in at least a day, while more complex systems require a few days or weeks to complete. However, some businesses may request at least two sessions to maintain operations during classes.
Once warehouse staff are sufficiently capable of operating the tool, they can create a video or webinar internally and use the cloud storage platform to allow newly hired staff to access it.
Conclusion
Comprehensive training is required for any warehouse management system (WMS) software implementation. And successful training has two elements: software preparation and user preparation. The warehousing company, vendor or consultant must cover all operational aspects, while users must understand the why, what, who and how of the conference, in order to generate favorable results.