Software Training

I recently read an interesting article entitled “Testing training: Disturbing Behaviors of Students“.  It’s author started the article with the phrase “Drive-by Training” - I’d never heard the term before but I love the term, as it made me think of much of the training I’ve experienced during various software introductions and implementations.

While the article specifically refers to testing training, the idea of “Drive-by” training is equally relevant to software application training as well.  In his article the author describes 5 “Disturbing Behaviors” — but the one I particularly like is his #2 behavior:  “Attending Class with a closed mind!”  I have seen this behavior almost as a consistent way of being for most students attending training courses — and I just can’t relate to the attitude.

However, busy schedules, over-worked personnel and negative perceptions of the value of training are pervasive with workers today (…and has been for quite a while I must admit!).  I will never forget August 1, 1999.  That was the day I was involved with what became the most night-marish software implementation that I had ever experienced!  When I look back at the “training” prior to implementation I shutter at the mistakes that were made.

“Drive-by” training is an apt description.  There was no depth to it at all — and turned out to be about as effective as ordering from your car through one of those infamously poor quality systems — and ultimately receiving the wrong thing!