Make It Easy
Make It Easy
In our tight economy it is imperative to focus on improving productivity with training. Both customers and employee-hours count. Here's a tip for training on a budget. Tight economy calls
for wiser use of
the training budgetLong in vogue on the mainland is a concept called "Distance Learning." You can take advantage of training anywhere in the world without booking a trip or a training room. Simply dial up or plug in and you are good to go.
The five most common types are:
1. Online universities: Numerous accredited institutions offer four-year degree programs. All class work is done online. An Internet search will help you find the universities that will work best for you.
2. CD Rom training: A program is customized for your company and burned onto CDs. Tests are sent back to the provider for grading and analysis. Corporations can track the progress of each employee and employees work at their own pace and level. Directions Inc., named one of Hawaii's Fastest 50 growing companies by Pacific Business News, offers this service. Others can be found online, search the Internet for "distance learning companies."
3. Video conferencing: Cameras and TVs are installed in several locations to allow interaction between parties. Its a great tool for organizations spread across several islands. The University of Hawaii and Kamehameha Schools have used this technology for years. Check the Yellow Pages for the technology to get set up.
4. Web cam conferencing: This works much like video conferencing, except that cameras are hooked up to your computers.
5. Tele-seminars: Also known as conference calls, I have used this technology since 1987. While at the Shidler Group I conducted regular training calls with management and staff in 18 U.S. offices. Arrange for a bridge line from either a phone company or telecommunications provider and everyone calls in to that line. While there is a long-distance charge for each participant, it is more cost effective than paying for parking, down-time and room rental. There are bridge lines for any number of people. The one I use for my programs takes 150 callers with no loss in quality.
Don't give up on your people or on training just because the economy is tight. Get creative and find ways to fill your needs without sacrificing precious resources.
Beth Terry is president of Pacific Rim Seminars.
This column is excerpted from her upcoming book,
101 Ways to Make Your Life Easier. Send questions
on management, customer service and other issues
to beth@bethterry.com.