training the best system is no good if people don’t understand it

Training

The best system is no good if people don’t understand it

A Level Tip

• Make sure you know the difference between• Training types and • Training methods (techniques)

Types of training

• Induction

• Task based

• Skills based

Induction Training

• For new staff• ICT Policies and procedures e.g.– Password security– Acceptable use of the internet– Physical security such as always having an ID card

Task based training

• E.G. A supermarket Point of Sale (POS) system• Possibly the only training for operational staff• Frequently the only training for external staff• Retraining required when systems change

Skills based training

• Typically for strategic staff– Middle managers– Finance people

• E.G Spreadsheet/ECDL• Typically spread over a long timeframe

Cost Benefit Issues

• Training is an investment• How will it pay for itself?– Higher productivity– Fewer errors– Increased sales

Staff Retention

• Does it pay to train staff who are likely to leave?• How will training affect staff?– Will trained staff be more satisfied and productive– Will they be more likely to stay– If they stay will the organisation be more productive?

Training methods

• Personal Training: One Person to another• Widely preferred to books/computer• Classroom – Traditional and well known

• One to One– Expensive, highly customized but very effective

Offsite Training

• Commercial Training Companies– Expensive but effective and specialised– Staff not be working causing an additional cost– Additional costs of accommodation/food etc

In summary

• Induction: When people join the organisation• Task: Specific to the job• Skills: Generic skills that can be used elsewhere….