Oracle Retail MFP and WSSI Training for Clothing & Home Retailer
This client is a leading UK and International omni-channel retailer selling clothing, homeware and furniture.
First Friday were engaged to design and deliver the training for a Trading Transformation Project. Our training consultants worked closely with both the retailer's and the systems integrator teams to create a training solution which was delivered to 150 delegates with overwhelmingly positive feedback.
The Challenge
The Trading Transformation Project incorporated the introduction of an enhanced grading structure, and the implementation of a new WSSI system using the Oracle Retail MFP. The replacement of current reports with BI would impact all areas and move the business from a focus on finding data to evidence-based decision making. The change impacts were huge.
First Friday were initially invited to review the Training Needs Analysis but were subsequently asked to take on the development of training for to be delivered. Deadlines were tight and the team needed to integrate quickly with the project team, the external systems developers and the third-party change and project management teams. An additional challenge came when, just a few weeks ahead of roll out, the retailer invited us to undertake the delivery of the training to the 150+ delegates they had identified.
The Solution
Our training consultants recommended a suite of role based training sessions to be delivered immediately before the new systems went live. The training was classroom based, combining an introduction to new concepts with hands on ‘how to ‘ training on the new system, slanted to the relevant role and product area. The ‘how to’ training required a training environment in which each delegate could follow the trainer as they walked through the process, and then practise using scenario based exercises set – and supported – by the trainer. Classroom sessions incorporated discussion as well as interactive games and quizzes to maintain engagement and keep energy levels high.
The initial classroom training was supported by quick reference guides hosted on the internal learning management system. This offered Business as Usual support to the teams after go live.
Our training consultants’ deep merchandising background together with the understanding and experience of this kind of project so impressed the retailer that we were asked to extend our contract to undertake the delivery of the training we had developed.
The Results
Our consultants hit the ground running and impressed everyone with their ability to integrate into the team and deal with the challenges of the project. Our understanding and experience of this kind of project enabled us to add value not just to the design of training but to system and process design discussions too. We developed and delivered 135 hours of training to over 150 delegates. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive!
“Just wanted to say a massive thank you to you for all your support on the programme – your complete professionalism, work of the highest calibre and an incredibly patient demeanour! We have nothing but exemplary feedback from all parties alike – it has been lovely to work with you.” – Change Manager
“Just to say a big thank you for all your support over the last few months. The feedback we have had from the floor regarding the training sessions has been hugely positive. I speak for the team by saying that your contribution was in valuable and that you will be missed!” – Business Sponsor