Why Role Based Training Works
Many enterprise tool vendors offer training in their products that are a generic “one size fits all” tool-focused approach. By focusing only on tool training, this approach often ignores what it takes to make an implementation successful. While this can help some team members at the individual level, more often than not it doesn’t help the enterprise achieve their goal of successfully implementing enterprise project management.
The most effective training strategy is role based followed by structured mentoring and coaching. So why is this? It’s because this approach takes into account a number of factors and elements some of which are unique to the specific role and organization. It puts the training in the context of the role and what it takes to perform that role. You can look at a role as it correlates to a defined work activity to which the staff member has been assigned. These staff members also have to follow processes, procedures, use enterprise tools and adhere to reporting structures and cycles.
Role based training takes into account all of these elements and integrates them into one class that results in a tight focus on that specific role. The attending individual will know how to produce deliverables, follow the process, use the tools and comply with the necessary reporting cycles and requirements.
Despite the benefits, some organizations shy away from role based training on the grounds that it costs more or takes longer to produce. Some would argue that the time and costs are saved by a more effective implementation with individuals requiring little to no refresher training. They also leave the classroom with a manual that directly supports their particular situation; making it excellent material for both tool and procedural reference.
In other words, because the training is focused on a specific role, it’s more likely to get a higher quality result than generic training. Employing a role based training approach will more efficiently provide individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to perform their specific roles. Role based training can have a significant, positive effect on user adoption and the overall success of your implementation.