Evaluating Training Resources
Finding, Training & Retaining Employees, Part 12
In August, we looked at people and processes as they relate to training needs analysis and the importance of implementation prior to training program development. Here we will review training resources and ways to identify gaps in your program.
Training Resources
The ultimate goal of a training needs analysis is to build the foundation of a training program driven by processes and standardization, so a thorough evaluation of training resources is necessary. Training resources are any tools used to communicate knowledge and/or skills to a person or group of people. They come in many forms, from a simple checklist on a sticky note to a full set of manuals, books and tests.
Start your training program evaluation by listing everything you know that you are using. For example, online classes, check sheets, books, machine manuals, community college classes, notes from vendor or supplier training, safety training materials, etc. Next, make a list of the resources you think you might be using, and then validate whether or not you are actually using them. Once you have these lists, begin to categorize and organize. For example, sort by training for safety, machining, design, EDM, etc. Once all the resources are sorted appropriately, you will discover what is missing and what is unnecessary. In other words, you will be able to clearly see what should be there.
When evaluating your existing training resources, it may help to think of the materials in terms of attitude, knowledge or skills. Then ask yourself, “Are we providing the proper balance in each area of training to develop the attitude, knowledge and skills of the trainee?” Even the most basic learning events must ensure that the proper attitude is set with the correct knowledge base to support the development of value-added skills.
Next, add or subtract materials from your list to ensure the training will be complete. Now you can work on standardizing the delivery of the final list so everything used for training will be accessible to each potential learner. Using an open-source (free) learning management system is recommended, and this can be installed on your network for a nominal fee by a computer programmer. This provides a common learning platform where every employee has a secure login to access the necessary training, which may include videos, documents, links and tests.
In the next part of this series, we will examine constraints that may exist in the company that prevent successful training needs analysis.
Related Content
Predictive Manufacturing Moves Mold Builder into Advanced Medical Component Manufacturing
From a hot rod hobby, medical molds and shop performance to technology extremes, key relationships and a growth strategy, it’s obvious details matter at Eden Tool.
Read MoreHow to Improve Your Current Efficiency Rate
An alternative approach to taking on more EDM-intensive work when technology and personnel investment is not an option.
Read MoreUnique Mold Design Apprenticeship Using Untapped Resources
To help fill his mold design skills gap, Jeff Mertz of Anova Innovations, is focused on high schools and underprivileged school districts, a school that has lower graduation and college entrance rates. The goal is a student-run enterprise.
Read MoreMMT Chats: Giving Back by Answering the Moldmaking Education Need
MoldMaking Technology Editorial Director Christina Fuges checks in with Bruce Cateon, an executive advisor at OASIC Consulting. Bruce started out in moldmaking, eventually becoming an industry consultant and taking time to work on his passion project the “Injection Mold Design Handbook” as a way of giving back to the industry that has given him so much. This episode is brought to you by ISCAR with New Ideas for Machining Intelligently.
Read MoreRead Next
Finding, Training & Retaining Employees
In this multi-part series of articles, contributor Ryan Pohl, a journeyman CNC machinist who also holds a master's degree in industrial training and development, addresses the skilled-labor shortage and its potential to dramatically hinder the future sustainability and growth of the moldmaking industry.
Read MoreMore Related Technical Instruction Justification
Finding, Training & Retaining Employees, Part 8
Read MoreHow to Use Strategic Planning Tools, Data to Manage the Human Side of Business
Q&A with Marion Wells, MMT EAB member and founder of Human Asset Management.
Read More