EDUCATION: CHANGING THE STATUS QUO

Setting aside classroom space can also be an on-site logistical challenge, whereas traveling to, reserving and offering meals at an off-site training session is time consuming and a major expense. Finally, it would be difficult for any in-house trainer to have the same level of knowledge that the supplier of the product would have.

Until suppliers began offering online employee training programs, manufacturers who actually did train their employees had to cobble together some sort of curriculum on their own. Very often the training was incomplete, inconsistent and failed to give full, detailed, updated explanations of how to properly operate the firm’s new tools and technology. This is something that would be anathema to an ISO auditor and may cost or delay a company’s certification.

ONSITE LEARNING ONLINE
Today, proactive suppliers have begun developing online employee training programs and learning centers that are available to end users 24/7. This online access allows employees to update their skills when and where it is convenient for them – which is especially important to companies that operate with multiple shifts and sites. Web-based learning programs deploy easily and simultaneously to employees worldwide. By providing training programs online, suppliers have made it possible for large numbers of employees to access this critical information.

These training programs may offer detailed information about material composition, chemistry, technical terminology, machine operating, tips, techniques, and troubleshooting. The most effective programs are user-friendly, dynamic, interesting, visual, and interactive. The material is delivered consistently and is updated in real-time to include new information and best practices. Because the information is standardized, all employees receive consistent training.

Using vendor-supplied online training also saves a manufacturer the considerable time and resources it would take to gather accurate, updated information needed to create a robust program. The manufacturer would also have to train its trainers, making sure they have a full understanding of the machinery, technology, systems, and subjects. Better to go to the source – the supplier, which typically has the best first-hand knowledge needed to train end-users and supervisors.

Online training centers are typically housed on a supplier’s website, allowing qualified trainees (often customers) to register. Content can be very specific. For example, in the metal cutting industry, an online training center can include technical training sessions that cover such topics as blade terminology, the design and function of various types of saw blades and machines, the physical composition of materials to be cut, how they respond to different blade types and sawing techniques, how to eliminate waste and cut with precision. Programs are tailored to apprentice or master level professionals.

Generally, web-based training allows employees to learn at their own pace and take a self-administered exam when they have finished a module. Employees often receive immediate feedback and can track their progress. The scores may be registered within the online training program, and once an employee passes all training modules they receive a certificate. This benefits the trained employee in several ways. Trained and certified employees earn the respect of their co-workers and managers while increasing their value to the company.

In some cases, supervisors can track their employees’ progress. Online training is also useful to supervisors who, as they rise through the ranks, may lose track of the minutiae of machine operation and can benefit from a refresher course.

INSURANCE FOR FUTURE SUCCESS
Employee training programs help managers groom the next generation of plant leaders; training is an important cog in a company’s growth plans. Therefore, employee training has immediate and long-term benefits leading to the ultimate viability and success of an organization.

Employee training can also be an important factor in a company’s ISO review and certification process. Companies that use supplier-provided training programs can refer auditors to a clearly documented, process-specific training regimen that is consistently delivered to all employees. The program is online and readily available for review. The ISO certification process goes more smoothly and quickly when a company can refer auditors to an Internet-based education program that clearly shows the training employees are undergoing as well as the purpose and benefits of that training.