We have a tendency to solve all performance problems with training interventions, even though a majority of performance-related issues are more amenable to non-instructional interventions.

I think a performance support system or a job aid is appropriate when:

1. The task has to be done quickly or speedily
2. The task is infrequently performed
3. The task is complex, involves many steps, or has many attributes
4. The consequence of error is intolerable
5. Performance depends on a large body of information
6. Performance depends on knowledge, procedures, or approaches that change frequently
7. Performance can be improved through employee self-assessment and correction with standards in mind
8. There is high turnover and the task is perceived to be simple
9. There is little time or few resources to devote to training

In these tough economic times, it makes a lot of sense to do some kind of study (like Harless Front-end analysis and the thirteen smart questions: http://www.ue295.com/xtranet/html/timeline/harless.html) to ascertain if the issue at hand can really be treated instructionally or we should just go for a simple job-aid.

I welcome you to share your experiences where a performance support system or a simple job aid like a checklist worked very well for you.

Thank you for reading my blog.

RK Prasad

CEO