Using Tech to Train in Manufacturing

We reached out to one of our Partners who is in the manufacturing sector to ask about training employees in the digital age.  We assisted with significant improvements with them so we were curious as to how it all turned out.  The head of training filled us in on her year-long project and was gracious to share her plan.  This is what she told us.

As the head of training for our company, I recognized the urgent need to revamp our outdated employee training system.  Our workforce is increasingly diverse in background and learning style, making it critical to design a training platform that is interactive, accessible, and adaptable.  My mission was to create a comprehensive, tech-driven training system that supports every employee's growth and enhances operational efficiency. Here are the steps I took.

Assessing Needs and Setting Goals

• Conducted surveys and focus groups to understand current training pain points and employee preferences.
• Benchmarking our processes against industry standards.
• Setting clear goals: increased engagement, faster onboarding, measurable skill development, and continuous upskilling.

Learning Management System (LMS) Upgrade

Entech implemented a cloud-based LMS that:

• Delivers content anytime, anywhere via web or mobile devices.
• Centralizes all training modules, certifications, and assessments.
• Tracks progress and provides analytics dashboards for managers.

Interactive E-Learning Modules

We partnered with an instructional design team to build multimedia-rich modules featuring:

• Animated process simulations.
• Scenario-based branching exercises.
• Gamification elements (e.g., points, leaderboards, badges) to boost engagement.
• Quizzes with instant feedback.

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) Training

• We introduced VR simulations for equipment operation and safety training, allowing employees to practice in a safe, realistic environment.
• AR was leveraged with smart glasses and mobile apps for step-by-step machine maintenance guides, overlaying digital instructions in real time during hands-on tasks.

On-Demand Video App Library

• Quick reference before or during tasks.
• Multi-language support for a global workforce.
• Short, targeted content to reinforce critical concepts.

Mobile-First Design

• Flexibility for employees on the production floor.
• Push notifications for key updates and deadlines.
• Allows for “at home” training.

Implementation & Change Management

• Piloted the system with several departments and refined features based on feedback.
• Organized hands-on training sessions for all employees on how to use the new system.
• Developed quick-start guides and FAQ resources.
• Set up a support hotline staffed by tech-savvy peer trainers.

Results & Outcomes

Since rolling out the new system:

• Training completion rates have increased significantly.
• Employee satisfaction with training has improved, as measured by post-training surveys.
• Onboarding times for new hires are shorter.
• We can now more precisely track compliance and skills progress across the entire organization.

Entech really helped us with the latest technologies, including a modern LMS, immersive simulations, mobile microlearning, and AI support. This allowed me to transform our training from a passive, one-size-fits-all experience into an engaging, adaptable, and data-driven system. This future-focused approach empowers our employees, boosts operational efficiency, and keeps us at the forefront of manufacturing excellence.