What are World-class Training Practices for CMMS Software?

Maintenance worker using CMMS software

Typical CMMS training programs take a multifaceted approach, using onsite and in-person workshops and presentations, individual training courses, and hands-on usage. As such, there's no "best way" to train employees to use a CMMS - rather, it's best to vary training practices based on the kind of information that's being taught.

Provide Information Specific Resources

CMMS software has a ton of different features, which means you should also have a variety of information sources to draw from. It's helpful to think about the kind of information in combination with how that information is presented.

For instance, it's a good idea to have both a self-accessed FAQ or wiki knowledge base and a battery of training courses, but the way the information is presented in these different sources should be different.

A wiki should probably be far more in-depth, while training courses should only teach the specific tasks they are based on.

Make Training Interactive

Not all employees connect and remember verbal presentations led by management. Everyone has a different learning style, but most people remember information when they are thinking critically and involved with the information.

Interaction is key to making sure employees are engaged in their training.

With this in mind, set up training so that there's an interactive component in every section. There shouldn't be very many (if any at all) drawn-out PowerPoints or hour-long talks. Instead, give employees access to a portion of the CMMS, so they can submit a work order or report a machine down. They'll like the training more and remember it better too.

Train as New Features Come

It's not enough to just train when a CMMS is implemented - training needs to be an ongoing process that incorporates new features and feedback on data input.

If you're purchasing a CMMS from a vendor, ask them- what kind of long-term training options are there? Will the facility always have access to the vendor's CMMS knowledge base? If the vendor can't provide ongoing training, you may need to consider implementing trainings yourself.

Reasons for failures in CMMS implementation include errors in planning, data migration from previous systems, and communication.

For maximum impact with CMMS training, employees should receive continuous communication, so that they are aware of new updates and product features. With a strong training program in place, an organization that wants to transform its business with a CMMS can see less confusion and more results.

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