Revolutionising Training for Tomorrow: Embracing Continuous Learning in the Age of AI

The future is now, and it's unfolding before our eyes at an unprecedented pace. As the world hurtles towards an era driven by AI and emerging technologies, one thing becomes abundantly clear: traditional training methods are no longer sufficient.

We are all standing at the crossroads of change, where we must revolutionise how we think about training in organisations.

Here are some key points for you to reflect on:

1. Training Has to be Revolutionised Now: The relentless march of AI and technology demands an immediate response. The status quo won't cut it anymore. To remain competitive and adaptable, we need to rethink our approach to employee learning and development. How about trying not to use the word 'training'? It might be a good idea.

2. Aligned to New Rules of Work: The rules of work are evolving faster than ever. We're transitioning from a world of routine tasks to one that values adaptability, creativity, and problem-solving. Employee learning strategies must align with this new paradigm. Listen to Gary A. Bolles.

3. Reinventing Training for Today's Multigenerational Workforce: In today's workplaces, we have a diverse mix of up to five generations, each with unique learning preferences. Learning and development should cater to this diversity, offering flexibility and personalisation.

4. Ongoing Learning Aligned to Culture: Training should no longer be a one-and-done event. It must become an integral part of an organisation's DNA and culture, encouraging continuous learning and growth. Training budgets should always be sacrosanct in a project, not the first thing to be cut.

5. Embracing the Speed of Change with Emerging Technology: AI, automation, and other technologies are driving change at a breakneck pace. We must not resist this change but embrace it. It's the only way to stay ahead in the game.

6. Learning While Doing: Have you ever enquired about the preferred approach to acquiring new skills or knowledge from a member of Generation Z (or even Generation Alpha)? Try it! We need to re-frame our approach with more 'learning whilst doing', in real-time. It's no longer just about front-loading 'training' in a project as a one-off 'tick box' deliverable. There are now in-application, learning guidance technologies that are embracing AI. These technologies support continuous learning within cloud software-as-a-service platforms long after the initial deployment, underpinning faster cycles of feature updates and improvements. Hold on to your hats!

7. Mindset, Skillset, and Toolset: Gary A. Bolles framework of mindset, skillset, and toolset to support the new rules of work is the key to adapting to the changing landscape. We must foster the mindset of continuous learning, hone critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and utilise tools like AI our advantage. Now. Organisations and employees that embrace this will be successful.

In Summary

As Project Managers, Transformation Managers, Change Managers, Company Executives, Learning and Development teams, and Cloud-based SaaS Product Managers, we have a unique role to play.

Let's be the catalysts for change within today's organisations - the time for a revolution is now. Let's break free from the confines of outdated practices and embrace a future of continuous learning.

The age of AI is upon us, and those who adapt and thrive will be the ones who shape it.

Are you ready to 'revolutionise training' and lead your organisation into a future of endless possibilities?

Let's embark on this journey together, stay inspired and keep innovating.

I have to acknowledge this article drew inspiration from a post I read over the Christmas break from Mandolen Mull, Ph.D. - how her training experience was no more than a check box exercise under the guise of 'development' - in her case a 76-page compliance PowerPoint.

This post generated 71 impassioned comments for change.

The Change Challenge is a series of thought-provoking articles designed to provoke discussion and reflection on the challenges of managing contemporary, continuous change. Tim Price-Walker has been at the forefront of change for more than 30 years as a product pioneer, breaking new products to market for global companies, and more recently as a Prosci Change Practitioner in New Zealand with experience in both Government and non-Government organisations.