Why Software Training Is a Priority

World-class corporations provide an average of 80 hours of training annually to IT staff members. That's two times that of other organizations. These companies also invest another 40 hours of mentoring and individual coaching to refine current skills, say analysts at the Meta Group.

Offering more resources, including training, to the best performers results in increased productivity and institutional value, these analysts say. By allocating time today, these organizations gain high returns running their business more efficiently tomorrow.

Video-based training addresses the time concerns of managers and lets employees train at their own pace. They get to the subject's core, and can refer back when necessary.

Video training also ensures a consistent experience for all employees. And it doesn't have to happen on a TV. Video training is effective via a CD-ROM, DVD, or over the Web.

Indeed, companies are leveraging video training in many ways, according to a study conducted by the Accenture consulting organization. The study found 67% of respondents surveyed said their companies offered some training and development services via the Web.

Half said "just-in-time" (no predetermined intervals) training was available to them, and 42% said their companies offer "extensive" opportunities for online training. Even Adobe Systems uses video training to cross-train its customer support team and keep them up to speed on new products and enhancements.

Then there's risk that employees will use the company's investment in training to get new jobs, but this is rarely the case. Analysts say training can be a strategy for improving employee retention and boosting loyalty.

Meta Group's research found average turnover among IT staffs dropped from 15% to 11% from 1999 to 2000, due to the meltdown by dot-com companies and an increase in training programs. Accenture consultants report that training boosts morale and encourages longevity of an employee's tenure.