What do you do if you're a mid-career professional trying to balance work and pursuing ERP education?
Balancing a full-time job with education is a challenge, especially for mid-career professionals. Yet, acquiring knowledge in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), a system that integrates various functions across a company into a unified database and processes, can be a game-changer for your career. ERP systems are complex, and understanding them can lead to better decision-making and efficiency in your role. If you're considering expanding your skill set with ERP education while juggling your current job responsibilities, this guide offers practical steps to manage both effectively.
Before diving into an ERP program, evaluate your current job requirements and how ERP skills will enhance your role. Are you involved in operations, finance, or IT? ERP knowledge can be invaluable in these areas. Determine the specific ERP functions that align with your career goals. Do you need to understand SAP, Oracle, or another specific ERP software? Knowing this will help you choose the right courses and allocate your time efficiently.
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Jayashis Halder
ERP Consulting | Oracle Applications - EBS & Fusion | Finance and SCM | SME - Health Insurance & Manufacturing
Here are some strategies to help you maintain this balance: Set Clear Goals Create a Schedule Prioritize Tasks Communicate with Your Employer Utilize Online and Flexible Learning Options Maximize Learning Opportunities Manage Stress and Burnout Network and Collaborate Stay Organized and Track Progress Seek Support and Guidance
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Ing. Arturo Robles Almeraya
IT Project Director - PMP certified/SMP certified/Scrum Developer. certified
En realidad, todas las empresas tienen la necesidad de gestionar diferentes procesos de negocio como son los procesos de adquisiciones o compras, manufactura, logística, ventas, finanzas, RRHH, contabilidad, etc. etc., y un ERP es la herramienta que automatiza los procesos empresariales de forma INTEGRADA. Creo que si te interesa sumergirte en este mundo, es vital con antelación conocer y entender los procesos de negocio y su interrelación. De esta forma será más fácil elegir los grupos de procesos que más te interesen y de esta forma seleccionar los cursos adecuados.
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João Carlos Januário
Consultor financeiro na ISOLUCKS Tintas em Pó
For the vast majority of businesses, there is no way to imagine their operations without an ERP and IT tools. What is an ERP? It is a set of systems working in an integrated manner with all company operations. I had the privilege of participating in these integrations from the beginning! What would you say to younger professionals and beginners, to research and dedicate themselves to understanding the functionality of these fantastic systems. I usually say that EVERYONE has very similar main purposes, the same objectives, differentiated only by some ways of constructing and analyzing information views in a different and/or complementary way.
Once you've identified the ERP skills you need, plan your schedule meticulously. Look for evening or weekend classes, online courses, or intensive workshops that fit your work life. Time management is crucial; set aside dedicated study hours each week. Remember, consistency is key. Even if it's just a few hours on a Sunday afternoon, regular study sessions will ensure steady progress without overwhelming your workload.
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Ing. Arturo Robles Almeraya
IT Project Director - PMP certified/SMP certified/Scrum Developer. certified
En efecto, una vez que se haya seleccionado el GRUPO DE PROCESOS de interés (Finanzas, Manufactura, S&D, RRHH-Payroll, Accounting, etc.). Lo ideal es seleccionar que herramientas (ERP) son las más valoradas en el mercado y elaborar un plan de capacitación con el objetivo firme de obtener una certificación..... eso es vital. También sería recomendable estar involucrado en proyectos que de algún modo vayan en línea con los cursos a fin de poner los conocimientos en práctica.
Your work experience is an asset when learning about ERP systems. Try to find connections between your current job and the ERP concepts you study. This practical application not only reinforces your learning but also demonstrates to your employer the immediate benefits of your education. Discuss with your manager how your new skills could be applied to current projects, potentially gaining support and flexibility in your schedule.
Take advantage of all available resources. Many employers offer tuition assistance or professional development programs. If yours does, see how it can be applied to ERP training. Additionally, join online forums and groups related to ERP systems. Networking with peers can provide insights and possibly mentorship opportunities. Don't forget to utilize free online materials and tutorials for self-study to supplement formal education.
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Ing. Arturo Robles Almeraya
IT Project Director - PMP certified/SMP certified/Scrum Developer. certified
En la actualidad hay mucho material disponible para poder aprender prácticamente cualquier cosa, incluso en plataformas como UDEMY ya hay cursos de SAP de todos los módulos (antes era muy difícil tener acceso a estos cursos, además de que el costo era muy alto), adicionalmente con las redes sociales, ya hay grupos de estudio y conocimiento que ayudan a resolver temas que no se entiendan o también compartir experiencia de casos reales. Lo que si es importante es que se llegue a obtener la Certificación de interés, ya que ese documento es muy valorado por las empresas y creo que es determinante en la selección de un candidato.
Pursuing further education while working full-time demands motivation and discipline. Set clear, achievable goals for both your ERP education and work projects. Celebrate small victories to maintain enthusiasm. Remember why you started this journey – whether it’s for career advancement, personal achievement, or a passion for technology. Keeping your end goal in sight will help you stay focused during challenging times.
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Ing. Arturo Robles Almeraya
IT Project Director - PMP certified/SMP certified/Scrum Developer. certified
Definitivamente, no hay logro que no implique un esfuerzo adicional. Es importante establecer metas claras y realistas, buscar practicar, tener un acercamiento con un Project Manager especializado en el ERP seleccionado para que le enseñe las etapas de implementación y tareas relevantes (tal vez con la ayuda de un plan de trabajo real) eso ayudará a tener un panorama global y finalmente ante los desafíos que puedan surgir mantener una actitud positiva y perseverar hasta alcanzar los objetivos establecidos.
Finally, don't neglect your personal life. A healthy work-study-life balance is essential for success. Make time for relaxation and activities you enjoy. It's important to prevent burnout by giving yourself breaks when needed. Balancing work, education, and personal life is a juggling act, but with careful planning and self-care, you can excel in your ERP studies while thriving in your career.
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Ing. Arturo Robles Almeraya
IT Project Director - PMP certified/SMP certified/Scrum Developer. certified
Adicionalmente, creo que debería adicionalmente a la capacitación del o los módulos ERP seleccionados, estar consciente de que alrededor de un ERP giran muchas personas como DBA´s, técnicos en telecomunicaciones, personal de operaciones, stakeholders o usuarios, Project Managers, Líderes de Procesos, etc., también que un ERP puede estar en diferentes ambientes (desarrollo, pruebas, producción), comprender que puede haber interoperabilidad con sistemas externos y que es importante desarrollar la capacidad de análisis para comprender la información que arroja el ERP.
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