One of the most challenging tasks we face on the STAARS project is ensuring the workforce is prepared to use the software and operate within the new processes. The STAARS project team understands the importance of training and is making a significant investment in training state employees to ensure we achieve ultimate success. The STAARS training team has already begun developing a training plan that will deliver training designed to meet all STAARS training requirements. Training will be broken down by topic that covers the different areas of STAARS which allows users to concentrate only on those areas that pertain to their jobs. For example, training may be broken out into the following (not a complete list):
Chart of Accounts
General Accounting
Accounts Payables
Accounts Receivables
Procurement
Vendor Customer
Fixed Assets
Inventory
Cost Accounting and Cost Allocation
Security and Workflow
Reporting
Training classes are planned for next year and we are already hard at work preparing for these classes. The overall training plan consists of a blend of training solutions such as eLearning, instructor led training (ILT), and job aids. Each phase of this blended solution is designed to provide a well-rounded education of STAARS and the State’s changing processes. Training delivery formats will include:
eLearning - Self-paced, on-line training which allows a user to complete interactive lessons that walk through the processes of performing common tasks and provide the basic skills required to navigate STAARS.
Instructor Led Training (ILT) - There will also be an opportunity to attend instructor led training. Instructor led training will include process flow, system interactions, and guidance in using STAARS to perform your job.
Job Aids – Once we go live, job aids will be available to help with step-by-step instructions.
Ideally, all users of STAARS will be trained on all of their job functions prior to going live. Nevertheless, we should first take a high-level view and ensure our organization is able to function in the beginning. To accomplish this, we may need to have employees focus on becoming an expert in specific subject matter areas. Once time permits, we can then focus on cross training and having employees learn other areas of STAARS to ensure we have sufficient backup, etc. Regardless, all users must be trained on STAARS basics that include an overview, navigation, data changes, and process changes.
To make certain we are successful, managers must ensure employees not only attend training sessions, but practice using the system before STAARS goes live. We shouldn’t assume that once STAARS is implemented, workers will have a clear understanding of their new responsibilities or how to use the system by attending a single training class. It will be difficult to be successful if users do not have a clear understanding of how to use STAARS. This level of understanding only comes from practice.
Training will not end when STAARS goes live. A web site will be available for users to gain knowledge on various subject matter areas. Employees will be able to register for upcoming classes, take eLearning courses, and access manuals, ILT presentation slides, and job aids/quick reference guides. We recommend that managers and employees take advantage of all the training that will be available.