Train for Software-System Decisions

Look for training that includes solutions to the actual projects you’re currently working on and that you can bring to class.

When you work with a new software-system program, such as 3D simulation, there’s a learning curve—one that can be steep.

The challenge with implementation and execution is often not in understanding the software but finding the time to effectively take the training. 

Simulation software can be applicable to any size company that manufactures, assembles, or packages and transports those items. The need is greatest for any company that has multiple projects and challenges in varying volumes and life cycles within their four walls.

When a company needs to learn a software or simulation system to efficiently manage its workload, watching a video or two simply is not sufficient. What works better is highly customized and personalized training that helps to answer each question. Not every vendor supplies such customized training. That’s where your ability to ask the right questions and shop for the best options is critical.

Making an investment requires an equal commitment from your supplier

You select a vendor for a solution, the training, and to make sure your related problems are solved. What’s the point in waiting to learn the software and then applying it to your real-world situation? The training period can help identify and solve some of the issues keeping you up at night. 

The most effective learning is conducted on something you’re familiar with and working on now 

As a customer, you should look for—and even demand—onboarding training to suit your organization’s specific needs. Those needs should include finding solutions to the actual projects you’re currently working on and that you can bring to class—the trickier the better. 

Students should leave training with a solution for their project in hand

Customized training is an invaluable asset because it ensures a level of one-on-one attention that is not common within industry. 

When searching for a software provider, ask before you buy

• How many hours of training are available?

• Is the training “off the shelf” or customized?

• How available are trainers to direct questions and dialogue? 

• What is the instructor-to-student ratio?

• What ongoing training is made available as part of the yearly contract and is that training included in the price?

Simulations serve as valuable sales and presentation tools 

Decision makers are more likely to sign off on a project they can see, and simulations offer visual confirmation in ways that Gantt charts and Excel cannot. By simulating different conditions, resources, and options, an effective training process lets you watch your scenarios play out before physical building begins. The value provided should be direct and measurable, such as a reduction in project costs or improvement in key metrics.

There’s no perfect way to judge the training quality a software provider offers but it should be a core part of how you come to a decision. Customization and a convenient and flexible delivery method with direct access to trainers should be expected. Do your homework up front and your staff will be properly trained and using a new system to improve operations. EP

Information provided by Chris Wiegandt, General Manager, Visual Components, Carmel, IN (visualcomponents.com).