• Guided learning paths: Cloud restruc-
tures people’s roles, so you need to
develop learning paths that address
those role changes. Identify people’s
needs and create individualized courses
to fill the gaps in their knowledge
bases.
Free training can get
you started, but it will
not get you to where
you need to go.
• Communication, metrics and reporting: Training programs should be more
than just knowledge dumps. They should provide insights, and measure the level
of value the trainee is receiving. Trainers need to communicate the goal of the
course clearly at the outset, and if it is not generating the desired effects, tweak
the delivery.
• Future learning: Training programs may only last for a certain amount of time,
but they should generate lasting impact. Make sure to offer ways people can
keep learning, keep training and keep improving. How can they stay current with
all the changes happening in cloud environments? Extend the learning paths
beyond the course dates to ensure that as the industry changes, your people will
continue to grow with it.
Conclusion
Free training is an enticing option for companies getting started in the cloud. It has its
advantages, but it has many downsides too. Free training can get you started, but it will
not get you to where you need to go. You will learn how cloud works and how to perform
certain functions, but you could be opening up your organization to issues down the
road, such as security hacks and cost overruns. You could also end up with a frustrated
team, and your cloud program could stall.
Signing on for more comprehensive training requires an investment by the company,
but it is worth it in the long run. Typically, training programs are tactical, but the best
ones take a strategic approach to continuous learning. Companies need to go all in on
training, because their competitors are making moves of their own. The organizations
that equip their workforce with the knowledge they need to succeed in the cloud will
position themselves to succeed in the marketplace.
SPRING 2019 | THE DOPPLER | 15