Software Training, Essay Example

Introduction

Most computer software applications need a degree of training. This paper sets out the training requirements applicable to the SAP Enterprise Planning software product.

Types of training for users

There are a considerable number of training providers for the SAP software application and they offer different levels of training that include:  (1) Classroom based tuition – Full onsite training covering all of the applications within the SAP software suite (2) Virtual Training – via 1:1 training sessions conducted online using simulations and case studies in order to learn the functionality of the product (3) e-learning – this is self-directed learning over the internet by the provision of graded instruction materials (4) onsite classroom training – this is using the clients own education and training facilities and thereby promotes a cost saving.  (Integrated Business Consulting, 2011)

The following types of training activities are required for users of the SAP software system:

• Scripted keyboard training that covers transaction processing on the system;
• Process knowledge – the reasons why each of the transactions are being performed, transaction processing charts
• Learning the user interface and new data requirements
• Operational Processing
• Ongoing knowledge transfer activities and maintaining the system(Wood, 2010)

Methods appropriate for the training

Owing to the complexity of this software, the preferred training method is that of classroom-based instruction (unless the users are extremely computer literate).  There are other methods that involve mainly some form of online learning environment i.e. virtual training or e-learning. For this particular software, it is recommended that this be used after formal classroom training has been conducted and this can then be focused on specific application areas required for different individuals. (Learn SAP, 2008).

Types of documentation used

The diagram to the right illustrates the main types of documentation sets required in the instruction of SAP training. The documentation is structured into the three important lifecycle components of the SAP system: (1) Implementation (2) Production Operation and (3) Upgrade.

SAP Terminology, Implementation Guide  and the Library documentation covers the complete SAP lifecycle application.  Implementation phase contains mainly Master Guide, Component Implementation guide, Configuration documentation and the Solution Management Guide.  Production operation focuses mainly upon more advanced aspects of the Security Guide, Implementation Guide and Solution Management Guide.  The upgrade section covers items such as the Upgrade Master Guide, the component upgrade guide, release notes and Data and upgrade images.

It is important to note that SAP comes with its own comprehensive library of systems and user documentation. Some of this may be considered too complex for users and many firms often produce and design their own custom user documentation sets based around their own internal transaction processing guides. ERP software is an investment over time in terms of business optimization and cost savings. The system is heavy in documentation because it embraces the entire operation processing.

Works Cited

Integrated Business Consulting. (2011). Education Services. Retrieved 8 31, 2011, from Integrated Business Consulting: http://www.integratedbc.com/education.php

Learn SAP. (2008). Learn SAP. Retrieved 8 31, 2011, from Learn SAP: http://www.learnsap.com/method.html

Wood, B. (2010, 5 31). SAP & ERP Consulting from the Customer Point of View. Retrieved 8 31, 2011, from SAP & ERP Consulting from the Customer Point of View: http://www.r3now.com/erp-vs-erp-ii-vs-erp-iii-future-enterprise-applications