Advantages of Learning Management Solutions for Compliance Training

Compliance can drive training, for better or worse. In larger organizations that have optional training, it is not uncommon for employees to enroll in and complete very few, if any, of the thousands of optional courses available to them. But when companies implement compliance, certain training is designated as mandatory. In some cases, workers can’t even get on the job site without their tickets or certificates of completion.

Mandatory training can be good for an organization, but in some cases it can be taken to extremes. In those cases, training becomes redundant and repetitive, and it is forced on workers in such a way that it is viewed as laborious and painful. Workers’ interests become solely getting their tickets, and their minds become closed, making the experience less than desirable.

With the right learning management software, it’s possible to have a positive impact on compliance training. In fact, there are three ways to reduce the negative impact mentioned above. They include adaptive learning, blended training, and advanced theory.

Adaptive learning is a technology incorporated into either the course design or the learning management system itself. This technology tests learners in a number of different training areas prior to the course beginning. Then, based on their test results, adapts the course to each student’s existing level of experience and knowledge. For example, if a student is already extremely knowledgeable in the area of Global Harmonized Systems, then that part of the course is shortened to a high-level overview that addresses the key points. If the learner scores low in the area of OH&S legislation, the course will provide a deeper, more comprehensive coverage of the topic. This means that an experienced and knowledgeable student will receive a short and concise course that could be 60 minutes in length, whereas someone new to the industry might receive a 6 hour course taking them through all the necessary details. This technology provides a tremendous advantage that matches the individual’s training needs, making compliance training more engaging.

Blended training combines in-class, onsite, and online training. This option takes the theory portion out of the classroom and offers it online, allowing students to complete the theory at their own pace. This means the training in the classroom can focus more intently on the hands-on or practical portion of the training. Onsite or in the field training can concentrate on skill demos, coaching, or competency validation. Combining online theory, in-class, and onsite training allows the strengths of each training type to shine and makes for an extremely thorough program.

The third solution is to have the training—whether in-class, online, or a combination of both—include advanced theory. For example, advanced theory can be added on topics such as leadership, management, and supervisor training within each required courses. Over time, this additional advanced theory can have an impact on company performance, turnover, and effectiveness if each of employee is learning about time management tips, effective communications strategies, leadership essentials, or supervisor basics within each course.

Organizations that look to achieve outstanding results combine all three of these solutions into their overall training program because they know the impact of this combination over time can result in a major competitive advantage. The challenge is in finding a learning management system that incorporates all three of these solutions and is the right fit for your company.