Training new employee

Speaking as a "single point of failure", I think this is more difficult than people realize. I have been the only analyst/systems specialist for materials for the last 13 years (using Lawson for 8 of those). We hired a new Purchasing manager 2 years ago the MM Director (my boss) wanted him to be my back up just in case I got "hit by a beer truck". I tried to educate the new manager the ins and outs of Lawson, EOM processing, setting up EDI, PF, publishing to LBI but it really never took hold with him. But it wasn't all his fault. He also had the burden of adjusting to a healthcare culture and learning purchasing operations coming from chemical/plastics manufacturing. I think anyone can be trained to do my job but the key is to use the knowledge on a regular basis. Even I have to re-educate myself sometimes if I haven't used something in a while. But if your just learning how then you have to get in there and do it. Operational learning works so much better when doing rather than watching. It also helps if the person is techno-savvy, can learn applications quickly and retain that knowledge. So do train them in all aspects of the job but have them get in there and work the system all the time.

Thanks Jon!

As another "single point of failure", (my tasks are simpler than JonA's - I only work on Lawson HR/PR, BSI and address correction software). I agree, there is a lot of "re-education" each time I do a task that I have not touched in a couple of years. Note: My manager uses the beer truck example as well -- I perfer, winning the Lotto & not coming in! ;-)
But, to answer your question, in the 5 years I've been doing Admin, I've maintained a list of the various responsibilities & a set of documents with detailed instructions (some with Lawson install docs included - when it makes sense).
I've had 2 opportunities to train a backup (both left 4 months into it). I would definitely expect 6 months to have a person trained and able to handle most situations, if said documentation existed - if not, add another 6 months. Also, at least a year and a major upgrade, before fully turning over the riegns (if needed).
We are going to try to tain another this year -- I'm keeping my fingers crossed (both, that person stick through it and the Lotto thing!)
Good Luck!
John.