A lack of IT skills amongst staff in small businesses means that companies are not making the most of their computer systems, research suggests.
The research, conducted by Cranfield University, shows that 80% of companies do not gain any immediate benefit of a newly installed system, as staff don’t know how the new systems work.
The lack of skills mean that some companies waste as long as nine months after a new system goes live before using it, the report says.
As a result of the lack of skills, potentially useful systems such Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) are not being fully utilised.
There are over 500 vendors in the UK currently selling CRM and ERP packages.
Cranfield University has announced the launch of a new ‘Laboratory’ to help businesses address these businesses issues.
The course will offer attendees to gain a full or part-time masters degree in the implementation of CRM and ERP solutions.
Dr Ip-Shing Fan, of Cranfield University, said: “Research has revealed that an alarming number of businesses, large and small, do not have sufficiently skilled people on board to support the business during and after implementing new enterprise systems.
“There are hundreds of CRM and ERP solution vendors in the UK. While they undoubtedly provide comprehensive support during implementation, the Enterprise System Lab will provide a 'safe' environment for students and businesses to experiment with the system implementation process.
“This will ensure they are able to make informed decisions to minimise risks and maximise benefit from any investment, immediately after implementation.”
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