FROM THE PRESIDENT – Richard Sampson
Technology is too powerful a partner not to employ
You may not know it yet, but this is a special issue of LTEN Focus on Training magazine – special in two different ways.
First, it’s special because it’s one of our special-topic issues of Focus. Like we’ve done with topics like field training and global training, among others, this special issue spotlights a single broad subject and dives deeply into it. In this case, we’re exploring the value and uses of training technology.
The second way this issue is special? That’s because it’s the last of our special-topic issues. Starting in early January 2023, LTEN is expanding our production schedule for Focus, and we’ll be bringing you 12 monthly issues annually. As part of that expansion, we’ll spread those special-focus coverage areas throughout the monthly issues. So, you’ll never be far from the content that matters the most to your career and development goals.
You’ll hear more about 2023 publication plans in the January issue – including, most importantly, the part we hope you’ll play. Stay tuned!
In the meantime, let’s dive back into this important special topic. If the events of the past two years have taught us anything, it’s that technology is a tool that training must use. Yes, there’s still a place for live, in-person instruction and I’msure there always will be. But technology is too powerful a partner not to employ.
I’ll spare you the story of the pandemic pivot – you all know the amazing shift training made and the amazing enablement technology provided. Since then,we’ve continued down the path of virtual learning and digital engagement, and there’s no end in sight.
For this special, special issue of Focus, we’ve pulled together some technology information, advice, trends and solutions to spotlight, including:
- Five learning trends or strategies you’ll need to know as we head into 2023.
- How Bayer is utilizing interactive, virtual, on-demand training to onboard new hires.
- A tools and tips checklist to prepare virtual facilitators before the cameras come on.
- Ensuring digital accessibility for all our learners.
- Creating a learning ecosystem to enhance the user experience.
There’s more, but you get the idea. I hope you find this issue helpful and, even more than that, Innovation often begins with a spark, and perhaps in these pages you’ll find a spark, an idea or a trend that will get something going.
There was a time – I’m sure some of you remember it – when technology was met with suspicion. Can this be replicated? Can that be overcome? Can people really learn when they’re hundreds or thousands of miles away from an instructor? The answers have been yes, yes and yes.
I hope you continue to explore the applications of technology in your training efforts. Our learners have come to expect it and as the saying goes, we must meet them where they live.
Our organizations expect it too. If we can realize advancements or savings or even both, then technology is not just a must-have for learners, it’s a wise investment into a business tool.
So please, read on. As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts, your feedback and your stories around training. Technology connects us too, of course, so sharing is easier than ever before.
In the meantime, enjoy your holiday season, everyone. Technology is no doubt apart of that too.
Richard Sampson is president of the LTEN Board of Directors and vice president, global training & development, global commercial operations, for Cepheid. Email Richard at
richard.sampson@cepheid.com.
