When selecting training methods, there are lots of factors to consider. If you’re in between a few different choices, we suggest using a training delivery methods comparison or training delivery methods matrix to compare the different types of training and see which will best meet your needs.
At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter how much time, effort, or money you spend on training if it’s the wrong training delivery method. That’s why we suggest considering the answers to a few important questions to find the best training methods for your employees. Here a few questions we suggest walking through:
What’s the purpose of the training program: The first step is always to identify the objectives of your training program. Depending on your training goals, certain training methods will deliver better results.. For example, more traditional training methods, like classroom-based training, may be more effective for hands-on learning or training that involves team-building or open discussion. But, online training methods are better if you’re looking to regularly train employees over time.
Who’s the audience: Training is most effective when your learners understand the purpose of training and see how it can help them in their roles. So, it’s important to not only consider how many people you’ll be training but also where they’re located. If you have a large team that’s located across multiple locations or working remotely, you’ll need to find a training method that supports a dispersed team.
What are their learning needs and backgrounds: One-size training doesn’t work in today’s modern workplace. For example, you need to train and onboard new hires differently than you continuously develop and enable seasoned teammates.
What do they need to learn: It’s also important to consider the topic or information that will be covered during training. Not everyone learns at the same pace, so if you’re looking to train on something complex or in-depth, it may be better to provide training through online software as it gives employees the chance to revisit and review training as often as they need it.
What are your options for training: Of course, it’s also important to take inventory of your available training resources. If you’re looking to deliver in-person training, do you have a conference room or space that’s big enough for everyone? Additionally, do your subject-matter experts or trainers have the availability to train multiple sessions?
Do you have time restrictions: For some companies, training may need to be rolled out sooner rather than later. This means your training method needs to support fast and effective training delivery.
Of course, it’s good to use different cost-effective training methods to fulfill different training needs. For example, if you need your training to be basic, repeatable, and testable, software is probably a good way to go. If you are training on complex topics that require strategic planning and lots of discussions, an in-person environment is probably better. These training methodologies examples are just a few of the many out there, but use these models as ways to think about how to choose your ideal training methods, and you will do fine.