When “SyteLine 101” Isn’t Enough
Training vs. Transformation?
Lately, I’ve had more requests than usual for “generic SyteLine® training." And I get it — training sounds like a neat, one-stop way to fix a team’s struggles.
But here’s the hard truth: whether it helps depends a lot on what kind of training you choose.
So, let’s unpack the difference between generic training and customized sessions — and when each actually makes sense.
When Generic Training Works
Sometimes, a SyteLine® 101 session is exactly what’s needed.
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Onboarding new hires who have never touched SyteLine®.
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Quick refreshers on a module or workflow that hasn’t been used in a while.
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Intro sessions for teams that just need awareness: “here’s what this form does,” “here’s where to find X.”
In those cases, a standard walkthrough can set a foundation. Everyone hears the same message, and you check the box that “training has been provided.”
Where It Falls Short
The problem shows up when organizations expect generic training to solve real-world process gaps.
Here’s why:
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It’s passive. I’m the one driving, sharing my screen. Learners watch, maybe take notes — and multitask in the background.
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It skips context. Your business processes, upstream decisions, and reporting requirements are unique. Generic training can’t cover every variation.
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Engagement is low. Adults learn best when they’re solving their own problems, not just watching someone else click through a form.
The result? People leave the session with some new tips, but the underlying issues — the ones slowing down your close, creating reconciliation headaches, or confusing new staff — don’t go away.
Why Customized Training Sticks
When we shift to tailored sessions, everything changes.
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The team brings their questions and scenarios to the table.
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We walk through your forms, your pilot environment, your data.
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People drive the transactions themselves instead of just watching me do it.
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We can dig into the ripple effects: “If you enter it this way, here’s how it hits AP/GL down the line.”
That’s where the real “aha” moments happen. It’s also where training shifts from information-dump to problem-solving.
The ROI Question
Generic training looks cheaper. But if learners disengage or don’t apply it, that spend isn’t saving you anything.
Tailored training costs more upfront — but the payoff shows up in faster month-end closes, fewer workarounds, cleaner data, and a team that actually knows how to get answers out of SyteLine®.
So, Which Do You Need?
Both have a place. If your team just needs a SyteLine® 101 foundation, start there. If you’re ready to solve deeper problems, go custom.
The key is being honest about your goals: Do you want awareness, or do you want change?
That’s the question I help finance and operations leaders answer every day.
Want to Dig Deeper?
Download the one-page chart and share it with your team — it’s an easy side-by-side of where generic training helps, and where custom is worth the investment.
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