Introducing new technology into the workplace can be a great thing. But if it is not adopted and consistently used to its fullest potential, the technology is basically worthless. That’s why every implementation strategy should include a training plan.
But there’s a hitch. The general workforce now comprises five generations: Traditionalists, Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and the quickly emerging Gen Z. And with each of these groups come varying learning styles, as well as attitudes and experience with technology. This single detail can prove to be daunting, especially when you consider how many different business users need to be trained.
Although this reality can give an IT training specialist a headache, it is possible to provide a multigenerational workforce with just the right amount of training. And yes, supporting this task does not have to cost as much as the implementation itself.
Getting end users the training they need to succeed
Not unlike most companies around the world, Evonik Industries depends on its employees’ ability to work efficiently. What separates this leading specialty chemical company from its competition? Its workforce is fully trained to make the best use of implemented systems.
According to Brigitte Köppler, IT Applications Services Training Management, Evonik, “We are now unifying the end-user training program for our applications on a global platform. Based on our experience with different formats and materials, classes can be customized and enhanced to fit all training needs.”
How did Evonik get to this point?
Köppler’s team chose a best-practice approach to train Evonik’s 33,000 employees who are scattered across 24 countries. By understanding the needs of each business user, internally designated subject-matter experts are able to compose learning content that is timely, engaging, and sufficient.
With this approach, the workforce is significantly more productive and less likely to make system-related errors.
But Evonik’s story doesn’t end there. As new innovations are invented and sought out to create a greater competitive advantage, user adoption can prove to be easier. By having a foundational understanding of current IT systems and being accustomed to using technology throughout the workday, employees can build their knowledge base to include new implementations in the future.
Learn more about Evonik’s success by reviewing this SlideShare doc. Then, find out how the SAP Education organization can help realize results similar to those achieved by Evonik.