By Thomas R. Cutler
e-learning has taken on increasing importance as most companies have global operations. Like franchise operations manuals that ensure a Big Mac is prepared consistently worldwide, e-learning allows the nature of global operations to achieve standardization. According to Six Sigma Master Black Belt Training and Instructional Design expert, Diane Lippman, “Adult learners prefer a menu of options in learning methodology. ILT (instructor lead training), e-learning or CBT (computer based training; WBT (web-based training, such as WebEx), and m-learning (mobile learning), each have traits and characteristics that will facilitate learning and foster an environment of adoption and compliance when training is mandatory.
Part of a Cultural Change
Until recently companies brought in Six Sigma consultants and used a significant amount of staff time to conduct training. There was often resentment because while this training occurred, staff was still expected to complete all usual functions and meet responsibilities and deadlines. According to Lippman, “One of the biggest obstacles of Six Sigma or Lean is the cultural hurdle. As part of the change management strategy, e-learning orientation can be a tool in the arsenal to bridge the awareness and orientation gaps.”
e-learning Gains to Justify Training ROI
The cost of training, the logistics of bringing trainers in house, learner travel costs and down time; site planning and costs, all have a fairly high cost component. The demand for e-learning is increasing rapidly because compared to onsite training; the costs is often less and the ability to provide a customizable solution that suits the company culture and approach is achieved more readily and drives better bottom-line impact. Most importantly, the company owns the training, allowing a more successful knowledge transfer.
Measuring is always the key
The core concept of Lean, Six Sigma, and Lean Six Sigma is the ability to measure process improvement. e-Learning utilizes quizzes and assessments built into the online courseware. Lippman noted, “Data can be measure through the Learning Management Systems (LMS) which allows for assessment of both training content analysis as well as the ability to quantify learner comprehension and subsequent application.” Prerequisites and mastery level courses may be required before a (perhaps a passing grade of 80% or better can be established before the next course or lesson can be taken.)
Creating Web-based Training
While it takes longer to create web-based training, the payoff is the continuation beyond merely development. Cross-training, on-going training, new employee training, can be established and standardized via e-learning where as Instructor-led training rarely has the consistence of established, weight, measure, and tested online training content.
Instructor-Led Training Still Available
The only coursework can quickly become the basis for Instructor-led training if better adoption and metrics are sought. The two methodologies need not be mutually exclusive. The consistency of material taught will only re-enforce the metrics and behaviors being sought by an organizations. Some consider live instructor-lead training to be the most effective because it facilitates real-time interaction, in-depth information sharing and direct responses to questions. While worthwhile, since staff is still expected to complete all other job function on schedule, a few hours on-line training allows participants to work at their own pace, based on their own workload, and diminish the resistance to a core culture shift. e-Learning allows for strong knowledge acquisition while adjusting to the cultural context. According to Lippman, “Long term adoption of new learning techniques is better when the participants want to learn the material, rather than feel forced to attend a meeting taking them away from their work duties.”
Training web resources provide easy-to-use, self-paced educational tools for everyone who needs an introduction to standards and conformity assessment activities. e-Learning content highlights the value and importance of standards and compliance programs in the U.S. and around the globe. By taking e-courses and exploring related educational resources and employees gain a strong understanding of key organizational metrics and processes.