Insufficient software training makes learners frustrated as they have to work with a software they have no idea about. This is why software training is crucial for vendors, clients, and employees so that they have command over the software that they are supposed to use. Read how e-learning helps.
When it comes to software training implementation, there are many challenges that the trainers and organizations face. Software created is intended to minimize repeated efforts by its users. If software users are not sufficiently and effectively provided with software training, it becomes impossible to maintain a balanced working environment.
Insufficient software training makes learners frustrated as they have to work with a software they have no idea about. This is why software training is crucial for vendors, clients, and employees so that they have command over the software that they are supposed to use.
Software training courses tend to be difficult because of the following reasons:
- They are not user- or learner-friendly
- They are too technical to understand with ease
- They have multifaceted interdivisional procedures
Let’s now see how can we address software training challenges using eLearning solutions.
Use video-based learning to train employees on major software changes.
Major software changes bring in a lot to be communicated to a large number of software users. In such cases, it is best to broadcast a webinar that updates users about the changes and updates. For imparting specific software training, how-to tutorials with voiceover can be created that explains a specific functionality.
Just-in-time support through microlearning nuggets to bridge gap between training and its actual application.
Sometimes, there is a time gap between software training and its actual application by learners. This causes the learners to forget what they learned and if there were any changes communicated. This is where microlearning nuggets come to rescue by providing just-in-time support to learners for application.
These nuggets are generally comprehensive guides of one task/job related to the software training imparted before. Learners save time by not looking for a specific piece of information in the entire training course.
Use gamification to prevent learner disengagement.
To be able to use a software application, it is hard to ignore the steps and options involved. This makes software training uninteresting and monotonous for learners. Organizations can overcome this problem by converting their software training into a game. Playing these games prove to be enough to gain necessary knowledge.
Even if you have a budgetary constraint that prevents you from adopting a gamified approach, you can incorporate gamified elements such as scores, badges, achievements, etc. in your digital/online training course.
Use simulations for giving hands-on experience.
Simulations eliminate the need to have assumptions and provide an environment where learners gain hands-on experience. This way, software training learners perform a task/job with confidence as they have already done the task/job in a similar environment before.
Testing the training methodology is critical to ascertain whether or not the purpose of training is achieved. This can be done through an LMS (learning Management System) to know if learners need improvement or to track their progress.
One of our clients, a large biopharmaceutical company engaged in research, development, and commercialization of drugs wanted us to deliver an end-user software training program for its employees in various roles such as administrators, authors, editors, and reviewers who were geographically spread throughout the world. The client’s requirements included:
- A blended approach consisting ITL and eLearning for end-user adoption on their new software tool
- Training curriculum in accordance with various, specific user roles
There was a performance gap due to the introduction of new software in the organization. Our solution to the client was a blended learning program which included simulations and instructor-led training programs.
Microlearning nuggets were created to facilitate retention and provide support to learners during their performance after training. We developed QRGs or Quick Reference Guides that assisted the learners to have quick reference while operating the software and to help them apply the knowledge they gained in training.
We also created short simulation modules that facilitated reinforcement and enabled learners to get better in operating the software. These simulations were also transformed in how-to videos which learners could easily access through their mobile devices.
This way, our software training course helped our client train its employees on the new software in the organization. Have you tried to deploy eLearning solutions to overcome software training challenges in your organization?
