Why Video Tutorials Are the Key to Effective ERP Training

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems—whether Epicor, Prophet 21, or any other platform—bring structure, automation, and insight to business operations. But unlocking their full potential requires something just as important: effective training.

While in-person, instructor-led sessions remain valuable, incorporating video tutorials into your ERP training strategy adds a new level of accessibility and reinforcement. This article outlines how on-demand video content helps ensure that ERP users learn efficiently, confidently, and consistently.

1. Learning on Their Own Schedule

Self-Paced Flexibility

Every user learns differently. A sales representative may quickly grasp quoting workflows, while someone in finance may prefer to go step by step. Video tutorials allow individuals to pause, rewind, or revisit sections as needed, ensuring personalized learning at every pace.

Support for Instructor-Led Training

Live sessions are essential for laying the foundation. But even the most thorough session can’t guarantee full retention. Video tutorials reinforce what was taught in-person, help bridge knowledge gaps, and serve as a refresher without needing to schedule repeat sessions.

2. Making Complex Processes Clear

Seeing the Workflow in Action

ERP systems often require users to navigate layered menus and hidden fields. A written guide might instruct someone to “Click Purchasing > New PO,” but seeing the actual navigation in a video—complete with hover actions and real-time feedback—makes the process easier to follow and reduces errors.

Building Familiarity Through Repetition

Watching a screen recording of someone moving through the interface helps users develop visual memory of where icons, tools, and options are located. Over time, this creates familiarity and confidence, making system usage more intuitive.

3. Consistent Messaging Across Teams

Standardization at Scale

When different departments or locations receive ERP training, consistency becomes essential. Video tutorials deliver identical messaging, tone, and pace to all learners, regardless of when or where they access the content.

Easier to Update Than Printed Materials

ERP platforms are regularly updated with new layouts, menu structures, or fields. Unlike printed manuals, which become outdated quickly, short video clips can be revised or replaced without overhauling an entire training framework.

4. Supporting Knowledge Retention

Multimedia Improves Recall

Studies show that people retain significantly more information from video demonstrations compared to reading text alone. Video tutorials combine audio, visual cues, and motion, offering a more engaging way to absorb complex material.

Promoting Independent Problem-Solving

Providing a searchable video library empowers users to seek answers on their own. Whether they encounter a new task or forget a step, they can quickly find guidance, reinforcing both confidence and self-reliance.

5. Promoting Accessibility and Inclusivity

Support for Diverse Learning Needs

By adding captions and transcripts, training becomes more accessible to non-native speakers, employees with hearing impairments, and those in environments where sound may be a barrier.

Designed for Mobility

ERP tutorials optimized for various screen sizes allow users to access content from a desktop, tablet, or mobile device. Whether at a customer site, on the shop floor, or working remotely, learners can stay connected to training resources.

Conclusion

Video tutorials are more than just a supplement to ERP training—they are a strategic tool for enabling long-term adoption and reducing support overhead. A blended approach that combines instructor-led sessions with well-crafted video content ensures that every user, at every level, has the resources they need to succeed.

By embracing video as part of a modern ERP training strategy, organizations can promote self-sufficiency, streamline onboarding, and support ongoing learning in a way that is scalable, cost-effective, and future-ready.