Everything You Need to Know About Effective Training for SAP EWM End Users

How can you ensure that warehouse employees seamlessly transition to SAP Extended Warehouse Management (EWM)? Implementing a new system can drastically change how your employees work, especially if they have been using the same software for years. Take order picking, for instance, where manual checklists are suddenly replaced by automatically optimized routes. A positive change, you might think. While it’s true that this approach is far more efficient, it also requires a mental shift from your employees. Curious how to effectively train your team and build trust in a new IT system? In this blog, we share best practices and practical tips for organizing impactful training sessions.

1. Preparation and Planning

A strong foundation begins with thorough preparation. By conducting a Training Needs Analysis (TNA), you can identify the skills and EWM functionalities your employees need to master. Focus on practical applications such as:

• Navigating the EWM system.

• Using RF scanners for order picking.

• Real-time inventory management and route optimization.

Ensure that training schedules align with employees’ shifts and working hours. Start by explaining the SAP EWM system and RF scanners, emphasizing the benefits: more efficient workflows, fewer errors, and simpler inventory management. When employees see how the new system reduces their workload, they are more likely to embrace the change.

2. Practical and Realistic Training

Training is only effective if it reflects daily operations. Use the Day in the Life Of (DILO) method to simulate a workday with realistic scenarios based on User Acceptance Testing (UAT). Allow employees to practice with real materials such as labels, boxes, and test data to connect the training directly to their daily tasks.

This hands-on approach helps employees quickly grasp the new processes and feel confident in applying them.

3. Quick Reference Cards and DILO Scripts

Provide practical tools to support employees during and after training:

• Quick Reference Cards (QRCs): Offer step-by-step instructions with clear screenshots of RF scanners. These cards help minimize errors and improve efficiency.

• DILO Scripts: These scripts give trainers a structured overview of the end-to-end processes employees need to follow, such as inbound, internal, and outbound workflows. This provides a comprehensive picture of their daily tasks.

With these tools, employees are equipped to confidently navigate the new system.

4. Continuous Support

Training doesn’t end after the first session. Regular refresher courses and ongoing support are vital to long-term success. These efforts help employees adapt to the new routines and minimize errors due to unfamiliarity.

Collaborate with warehouse supervisors to monitor performance and actively collect feedback. During the hypercare phase—the period immediately after go-live—address specific challenges that might not have been fully covered in training. For example:

• Updating instructional materials based on practical experiences.

• Regularly revising Quick Reference Cards.

• Organizing targeted workshops based on employee feedback.

By offering tailored support, employees will feel more confident in their new roles, leading to faster adoption and improved performance on the warehouse floor.

Want to learn more about effective training strategies?

Read our article on change management to discover how we can support your organization, or contact Robin Hazelaar directly at +31(0) 612756845.