The Learning Theatre was recently approached by a large international petrochemical company to help them with the implementation of SAP.

Nick Borraine and Kezia Jooste

The petrol giant wanted to become part of international best practice and as such needed to implement SAP. But for those who have knowledge of the subject, it would be obvious that this is far easier said than done.

SAP by its very nature requires of the companies who implement the system to rethink the way they do business. Systems have to change and be adapted and the approach to business has to change. Real time input of information is critical as is the correct codes and procedures. The problem is that many potential SAP users do not appreciate the new thinking that is needed to make SAP effective. People believe that they are computer literate and therefore they will have no problems with SAP.

On the other end of the scale there are the workers that have never needed to use a computer. Suddenly, with SAP, they are required to input their information in real time and with precision. For a lot of people this is a very scary prospect indeed.

The Learning Theatre was approached with the object of helping the transition to run more smoothly by preparing employees for the advent of SAP. The industrial theatre workshop not only had to set the scene for the coming of the new system, it also had to set the minds of employees at ease regarding training opportunities and the possibility of getting help when needed.

The Learning Theatre made use of three plays; each play designed to achieve a specific outcome. After play one the audience was very aware of the pitfalls that awaited the unwary SAP user. The second play demonstrated the implementation process, addressing fears and allying suspicion. The last play showed the successful company after a solid SAP implementation.

Six workshops were held, each one attended by at least 250 people. Four of the workshops were held in a theatre in Johannesburg and two were held in Durban. The cast consisted of some of South Africa's top acting talent, including Nick Borraine, Mmabatho Mogomotsi, Kezia Jooste and Sokhulu Mthijane. The excellent Juliette Jenner directed the players, and Saranti Rheeder did the music direction.

Feedback after the each workshop reaffirmed the same message; that the theatre pieces were gripping, amusing and very informative. Many people indicated that their fears had been addressed and that they were now actually looking forward to the new system whereas before they were anxious about it.

Once again the Learning Theatre has shown that there is just about no subject that cannot be addressed using their unique brand of dramatic solutions.