How is Software Training Changing? The Ins and Outs of Workflow Learning with Joachim Schiermacher

Understanding underlying needs: The bedrock for workflow learning

Understanding the corporate customers’ (and, by extension, the end users’) underlying needs and reasons behind their software requests is pivotal before focusing on software training itself. Joachim emphasizes this as the essential first step all vendors should take with their clients:

“By placing the user at the center and aligning our solutions with their intrinsic workflows, we create targeted learning solutions that cater to individual requirements and diverse learning styles,” he notes. This harmonization between software and existing work processes forms the essence of workflow learning, fostering smoother adoption and enhanced operational efficiency.

Seamless integration into workflows enhances user adoption

The success of software is deeply linked to its user adoption, which is significantly influenced by how effortlessly the tool integrates into existing workflows. Joachim stresses the importance of this seamless integration, as it aligns with the moment of applying acquired knowledge.

“Consider a sales representative utilizing a new CRM tool – integrating learning within the workflow ensures immediate application, fostering confidence and competence,” he says.

Ensuring the delivery of user-friendly solutions that meet needs, blend seamlessly into daily routines, and are supported by robust training is paramount for the effective assimilation of new tools into workflows.

Adapting to evolving workflows

Organizations are rolling out multiple applications, making the integration of these tools into cohesive and streamlined workflows imperative. The alignment of applications within existing workflows brings forth both challenges and opportunities, emphasizing the importance of smooth interoperability and the minimization of disruption. Joachim’s insights serve as a reminder of the critical role integration plays in optimizing data flow, task transitions, and overall process efficiency.

Vendors should remain committed well beyond implementation, ensuring the solution continues to align with a company’s evolving processes and workflows. Joachim underscores the importance of adaptability and long-term vendor involvement, relating it to the moment when things change in the organizational landscape.

“In a dynamic work environment, adaptability is key. Training should evolve with changing workflows to maintain relevance and efficacy,” he says, highlighting the ongoing need for optimization and adjustments to preserve workflow efficiency amidst organizational changes.

Digital transformation is redefining workflows

Digital transformation is more than just adopting new technologies; it signifies a shift in the very way work is executed. This shift demands a thorough re-evaluation and redesign of workflows, aiming to fully harness the capabilities of digital tools, optimize processes, eliminate inefficiencies, and boost productivity.

Joachim delves into the intricacies of digital adoption and transformation, emphasizing the need to learn and adapt to novel ways of working:

“Redefining workflows is pivotal as organizations embrace digital tools. It transcends merely using a new tool; it necessitates its effective integration into the organizational fabric,” he says.