The Secret Sauce to Maximizing Adoption
Successful training is measured by a learner experience that results in adoption of the tools and business objectives set forth by the organization and confirmed by business performance improvement. But, envisioning what success looks like is not enough. Understanding the risk factors that contribute to failed rollouts—and selecting a training partner that has the knowledge and experience to overcome them—is also key to achieving improved business performance through a successful training program.
We believe that the right software is only half the recipe for success; the value of your software depends on how people use it.
So, what really goes into the secret sauce for maximizing adoption? How do you ensure a high rate of adoption? We believe that this recipe has many ingredients:
Focus on behavior change
We utilize a science-based training methodology that focuses on full adoption through behavior change. This methodology utilizes realistic scenarios and hands-on exercises to install new behaviors that end users will need to be successful on the job with their new tools. Utilization and adoption are the true measure of success. If your training design and objectives are focused on what the end users will know after training rather that what they will do, your adoption—and therefore the success of your project—may be at risk.
Involve managers
Informing and enlisting the support of frontline managers is critical. If manager engagement and training is an afterthought, they may be unaware of what to expect and ill-prepared to support the training—which can be an impediment to full adoption. If well-prepared, front line managers can be a key element in the effectiveness of the training rollout and a driver of sustainment and adoption post-Go Live.
Build an engagement roadmap
A key ingredient is ensuring that your project workflow is process-based. This ensures that every milestone is properly sequenced, efficiently resourced, and executed on time and on budget. A sample high level roadmap is illustrated below.
Work with scalable teams
It is critical to work with teams that can be scalable on demand. In our experience, we typically assign a core team that remains engaged throughout the project. At specific milestones or as needed, we utilize on-demand support resources. In this way, we scale the team appropriately. This offers efficiency in resource allocation and project spend and goes a long way in ensuring project success and full adoption.
Enable sustainability
Beyond a successful launch, a sustainment plan for new hire, refresh and ongoing training is critical. Planning for it in advance ensures the consistent, successful utilization of tools and business processes.
Time delivery to perfection
When it comes to training delivery, timing matters. Too much time between hands-on learning and Go Live has a negative impact on adoption. To maximize the effectiveness of your investment in ILT, the ideal window for live training should be very close to Go Live. Determining the most effective live training plan is critical to success.