MBTI for ERP Projs.

"Communication Skills"
Interax’s use of the MBTI^® in ERP Projects

The MBTI^® can be a pivotal tool in improving the communication, decision-making and strategizing skills of everyone involved with a large IS project, such as an SAP implementation.

Interax has developed a unique training program tailored to those implementing SAP and other ERP solutions. Our approach relies heavily on application and uses designed opportunities for participants to experience the material "in their own environment."

Why do teams need this program?

	SAP projects fail or are seriously compromised at an alarming rate. The reasons for this are seldom "technical" – rather, they are more often "human." Misunderstandings, lack of trust, corporate-speak, low morale, lack of job security, and turf wars are frequent dangers for these projects.
	Common to all these problems is the need to effectively communicate, strategize, and make optimal decisions.
	SAP team members commonly suffer from stress, burnout and attrition. Further, post-implementation re-integration rates for members are frequently very low.
	Many end-users enter SAP projects with numerous negative preconceived notions.
	SAP Project team members, both outside consultants and company employees, bring very different backgrounds and experiences. These differences do not automatically "blend" in a complementary manner.
	SAP projects need all the support possible – from upper management as well as front lines. Teams need to be able to communicate and aid in the decision making of those at many levels in the organization.
	Project teams often struggle to explain to other company employees the magnitude of change being considered.

What will this training do?

	Provides team members with a common "language" they can use to discuss the different ways in which they interpret and value information.
	Gives tools for dealing with people "not like them" – commonly those with whom they struggle to communicate.
	Helps the process of strategizing and goal clarification.
	Provides a solid foundation for individual and group decision making.
	Explains how team members can leverage their natural strengths while compensating for their blindspots.
	Identifies sources of stress and offers methods for better stress management.
	Explains why different people deal with change differently.
	Provides a method for better understanding and communicating with those individuals who are of key importance to the project.
	Suggests methods for better explaining the value of the project and its progress to those outside the project team.
	Shows methods for reducing unnecessary end-user implementation resistance.
	Illustrates means for getting the most support from upper management.
	Explains why some end-users may not initially value the process or its results.
	Helps avoid costly system re-designs.
	Builds teamwork and brings members closer together.

How does it work?

	This program is a fast-paced, interactive session, customized to the organization’s culture and specific needs.
	Preparatory interviews are conducted with key players previous to the session in order to customize the program, and allow the trainers to use the team’s "language."
	The program requires a 2-3 day session (13 contact hour minimum), with recommended, periodic follow-ups at 60 – 90 day intervals for additional skills and tie-ins.
	Participants receive an extensive set of handouts that also serve as a post-session reference guide.
	After each session, trainers will debrief with the Client.

Logistics

	Audience size can range up to 90, although 20 - 40 participants are the ideal size.
	The MBTI is administered in advance to all participants.
	Given the duration of most SAP projects, the sooner participants receive this training, the greater time they have to leverage their knowledge.

What Previous Participants Have Said:

	"I have attended MBTI training sessions before – this is the first time I really understand it!"
	"Every group should have this material before they make decisions."
	"Now I see where my stress is coming from."
	"Excellent."
	"This is the first time I’ve really understood how to apply the MBTI to my job."
	"Although I walked in with some doubts, this was time very well spent."
	"The team-trainer approach is effective and well executed."
	"I can also use this knowledge with my family."
	"Thank you – this will make a great difference."

Optional Program Integrates Training with Issue / Problem-Solving Application

Organizations may choose a more extensive program that combines the basic training session with additional hands-on problem solving.

Participants will benefit from a combination of our training and issue/problem-solving approach.

Specific "human" issues will be identified during the pre-session preparation stage.

Selected issues are folded into the application exercises and group discussions.

This approach achieves dual goals:

	The basic MBTI training, and
	Better understanding and brainstorming on issues and/or possible solutions to actual project problems.

The unique aspect of this approach, however, does require a greater time commitment than most conventional MBTI training. In our experience, this is necessary for the maximum level of tangible benefits.

MBTI^® and Myers-Briggs Type Indicator^® are registered trademarks of Consulting Psychologists Press.
Interax^® is a registered trademark of Interax Corporation.