What is On-Demand Training, and Why is it Important?

What is on-demand training?

On-demand training is a learning strategy that enables learners to learn optimally for them – at a time, pace, and place of their liking. With on-demand training, when a learner needs information, their informational needs are met at that moment. This immediate access to knowledge allows employees to implement newly gained knowledge immediately, enhancing the practicality and usefulness of the learning experience.

Unlike traditional L&D training methods that give the trainer full authority to decide the pace, time, and location of the training, on-demand training gives that power to the learner. Employees are able to access relevant training resources at their point of need. On-demand training leverages technological advancements to deliver learning that meets modern learners’ needs. That is – it’s bite-sized, need-specific, and timely to create flexibility and convenience that best supports learners in acquiring new skills. This flexibility and convenience make the learning process more comfortable and enjoyable for the trainees.

On-demand training and mobile technology

It is safe to say that the advancement of mobile technology globally has been pivotal in shaping on-demand training into what it is today. This rise in smartphones and other ‘smart’ devices like tablets made it effortless for trainers and learners to transition from conventional Learning Management Systems (LMS), which offer learning content on desktops, to the new mobile-first platforms. These provide the content in a more customized and flexible way that learners can consume anywhere on the go via their mobile devices, adapting to the learners’ needs and schedules.

Why is on-demand training important?

It is not just about convenience, although that is certainly a significant advantage. It offers a plethora of benefits, particularly in a corporate training environment. Let’s delve deeper into the advantages of on-demand training beyond its convenience factor.

1. Increases engagement

When employees have the autonomy to choose when and where they engage with training materials, their engagement levels naturally increase. This flexibility allows them to integrate learning into their workflow, applying new concepts and skills immediately. This real-time application reinforces learning and demonstrates its practical value, leading to a more motivated and competent workforce.

2. Tailored to your organization

Learners today are used to having everything at their fingertips. If they have a query or want to learn something new, they can immediately look it up on the internet. But don’t you want this information to be specific to your organization? In an age where information is instantly accessible, it’s crucial that your employees have resources that are not only immediate but also tailored to your company’s context. On-demand training ensures that your team is equipped with organization-specific knowledge, providing precise solutions when needed.

3. Saves costs

Face-to-face or “instructor-led” traditional training is expensive and time-consuming. On-demand training tackles these challenges. First, a tool that allows you to develop an on-demand e-learning course is significantly less than the cost of face-to-face training. Secondly, it takes less allocated training hours for learners. So, since time is money, additional costs are also saved. As a bonus, when employees get the relevant training, it can bring even more advantages to the organization, often monetarily.

How do you conduct well-aligned on-demand training in your organization?

On-demand training is approachable because it focuses on meeting the learner’s need when it arises, rather than pre-scheduled education sessions that happen regardless of the immediacy or scope of need. Therefore, planning for this type of training requires anticipating what the learners need, when and where they can use the experience they need, and creating content-oriented content to meet those requirements in a focused and accessible manner. In order to conduct proper on-demand training:

1. Get an on-demand training platform

The key to creating an effective on-demand training strategy is having the right tools and technology in place. First, it is essential to identify the problem and the need for the training. A training needs analysis can recognize the gap in the training program. It determines the type and level of training. With the right tools and proper integrations, employees can access these resources in their time of need.

2. Involve your learners

Your on-demand training will be most efficient when others are on board. Ask other company managers to get involved in creating resources for their learners. With the right tool and an explanation of the advantages, it can be easy to get others excited about designing on-demand training for the learners. Let employees know that they will have access to company-specific skills/knowledge in their time of need, and tell them where they can find it so it’s easy to access.

3. Make use of data and learner feedback

To take your organizational on-demand training to the top level, data and feedback should become your best friend. Pay attention to the training with the highest completion rates and conduct more training like this. For those that are not as effective, understand whether they can be improved. When it comes to feedback, the learners will provide the most significant insights. Listen to what they like and dislike to fill the training gaps in your data. This will improve the learner’s experience and increase engagement with your content.

Now, are you creating an on-demand training course for your organization? How are you making your course engaging? Share your insights in the comments.

If you still have questions about how to create an on-demand training course, schedule a meeting with us.

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Knowledge Check!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is on-demand training?

On-demand training is a learning strategy that enables learners to learn optimally for them – at a time, pace, and place of their liking. With on-demand training, when a learner needs information, their informational needs are met at that moment.

2. What is an on-demand training example?

The best example of on-demand training is microlearning.

3. What is the significance of on-demand learning?

On-demand training enhances relevance and relatability by providing easy-to-access content. They are short and targeted. It can help remote employees access the required support anytime and within their workflow.