Excellence At Work Podcast Episode 202

How Companies Adapted to Remote Learning Challenges

 

In this episode of Brandon Hall Group’s Excellence at Work podcast, Rachel Cook speaks with David Proegler, Managing Principal at Latitude Learning, about how organizations have adapted their certification and learning programs during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The discussion highlights strategies, technologies, and challenges in training extended enterprise networks, focusing on partner, dealership, and reseller networks.

Key Points and Highlights
Impact of COVID-19 on Certification and Learning Programs
  • Hands-On Learning Halt: COVID-19 disrupted critical hands-on and skill-based training, creating backlogs and degrading customer metrics, performance scores, and quality metrics.
  • Virtual Technologies Stepped In:
    • Tools like Zoom and Microsoft HoloLens were adopted to facilitate remote training.
    • Creative solutions such as live-streaming training via wearable devices (e.g., trainers or trainees wearing cameras) bridged gaps.
  • Blended Learning Models:
    • The pandemic accelerated the adoption of hybrid approaches, reducing in-person training days by focusing on virtual preparation.
Unique Challenges in Extended Enterprise Training
  • Industries Affected Most:
    • Automotive: Warranty repair and compliance suffered due to halted training.
    • Aviation: Strict certification and skill validation requirements for pilots and mechanics saw delays.
  • Staffing Issues:
    • Talent shortages, high turnover, and the need for rapid skill development added pressure to training programs.
    • Younger employees demand clear career paths and skill progression to stay engaged.
Evolution of Training Strategies and Technologies
  • Use of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR):
    • VR and AR are increasingly adopted for overlaying instructions on machines, enabling remote mentoring, and enhancing classroom training.
    • These technologies allow instructors to guide trainees virtually, improving accessibility and efficiency.
  • Learning Bites:
    • Recorded sessions are repurposed into short, focused learning modules for immediate application and reinforcement.
  • Continuous Learning Journeys:
    • Training is shifting from one-time events to ongoing, modular programs, allowing learners to apply skills in real-world settings and return for further learning.
The Importance of Skill Gap Analysis
  • Defining Skill Needs:
    • Organizations must identify the skills required to fulfill their mission, determine talent mix, and address gaps.
  • Metrics-Driven Training:
    • Aligning training efforts with performance metrics (e.g., quality, sales, and customer satisfaction) ensures measurable impact.
Anticipated Trends in Learning and Development
  • Rebuilding and Future-Proofing:
    • Organizations are reinvesting in training infrastructures to address current backlogs and safeguard against future disruptions.
  • Instructional Design Evolution:
    • The demand for virtual and hybrid models will drive innovations in instructional design, emphasizing efficiency and engagement.
  • Increased Agility:
    • Training programs must adapt rapidly to changing workforce needs, leveraging data and technology for strategic workforce planning.
Key Takeaways
  • Blended Models are Here to Stay: The shift to virtual and hybrid training offers cost and time efficiencies and is likely to remain dominant.
  • Technology Enhances Training Quality: VR, AR, and multi-camera setups are improving training outcomes both remotely and in-person.
  • Strategic Focus on Skills and Metrics: Training programs must align with business objectives and provide measurable outcomes to remain relevant and impactful.
  • Empowering Employees: Clear career paths, immediate application opportunities, and continuous learning keep employees engaged and drive retention.

This podcast highlights how organizations are navigating the complexities of extended enterprise training post-pandemic, focusing on leveraging technology, addressing skill gaps, and creating adaptable, impactful learning environments.