Training Matters!

Many organizations, administrators and individuals say the word "training" like a four letter word. For organizations, training employees may, in the short-term seem expensive and impact productivity. Yet some times, training is required; new regulatory processes, new equipment, or a change in policy may require training (there's that word again), coaching, and mentoring. Individuals may regard training as a duty or requirement rather than an opportunity.

Let's get this out of the way up front: Definitive quantitative proof of training value is hard to find. In a world of AI and analytics, it's tough to draw a straight line in a Visio diagram from a three day training class process shape to an increased productivity terminator shape.

Yet, we believe that training can benefit individuals and organizations in multiple ways. At the most basic level, participants complete a training class with the knowledge required to operate the new machine or comply with the latest regulations. But what if we regard training as a mechanism of ongoing improvement?

Microlearning

Microlearning is the process of breaking down a mass of information into smaller chunks. For example, training on new equipment might include two or three knowledge points to improve hard skills, followed by images, questions, and discussion points to improve soft skills.

Scenario-based

One of the biggest training challenges to overcome is that workers will always do things in the most familiar way unless you conclusively demonstrate a better way. We believe that scenario-based based content can radically improve critical on-the-job thinking skills by making the training contextual, relevant and actionable.

On-going

We also believe that training is a great time to learn and grow. Great training not only helps people do their jobs better, it also helps them to understand their work environment and ask more questions. Training is can also help retain hard-won "tribal knowledge" by incorporating input from experienced participants and users.

Morale

One universal truth of training is that participants complete training with an elevated feeling of worth, both to the company (if applicable) and themselves. People enjoy the opportunity to share knowledge and provide input in any setting. Participant-focused training can benefit not only participants, but everyone in their work environment. Who doesn't like sharing a better way to do things?

Conclusion

So are we any closer to drawing that straight line from training to increased productivity? Probably not if we only consider empirical evidence. Yet we at FatDawgs still believe the engaging training and documentation with persistent impact can be a huge asset to both individuals organizations.