When we talk about the effects of the pandemic, it is easy to glance over a significant and important change – the speed of digital transformation across the NHS and how this is being accelerated.
We’ve seen rapid adoption of a whole range of digital solutions and technology tools – software solutions to streamline processes and automation of repetitive tasks, as well as colleagues finding new ways to communicate online more effectively with each other and patients.
Many of these solutions have been rolled out in haste and we all know why. In fact, some are saying the speed of this digital transition represents about a decade’s worth of progress in pre-pandemic times.
While this all sounds pretty impressive, it is important to focus on the impact this has had on people, particularly those who are at the sharp end of using all this tech. As experts in supporting organisations with digitally-led training to support the roll out of technology, we understand the effect of cutting corners when it comes providing people with the knowledge and skills they need to get the most out of software and technology.
In the past, we’ve stepped in on more than one occasion to support organisations when a software roll has gone wrong. Most often rather than a system or the software itself being flawed; issues usually stem from lack of training for the workforce. Despite the best intentions, corners can be cut because of costs or pressure not to take people away from their core role to train. Also, despite what you are sometimes led to believe, not all software is intuitive for all people! The key is to find an effective way to bridge the skills and knowledge gap for every single user, so they are confident in their particular role.
The reality is that nowadays we have moved away from training solutions where one size is expected to fit all. It is quick and easy to use technology to develop digital learning which is responsive to the needs of individual learners and replicates the system they are learning to use, including the functionality they will need for their role. Also learning can respond to the preferred pace and style of learners making it a more personalised experience, enabling them to retain information quicker. This minimise the actual time it takes each person to reach full competency, reducing the time they need to spend away from their core role.
Key features:
- Tailored to your system or technology solution – system agnostic.
- Responsive to the needs of individual learners so they learn quicker.
- Available online at any time – fits with rotas and other commitments
- Can be part of a blended learning solution, including virtual options.
- Frequently used as an introduction to minimise classroom or virtual learning.
We know that the emotional and psychological cups of the NHS workforce are pretty full right now. Plus, we also know that large-scale change programmes and particularly the introduction of digital technology can be highly stressful for those who are expected to use software systems as part of their role.
Let’s do all we can to make people’s jobs easier, rather than harder by fully utilising the digital learning technology available to enable them to develop the skills and knowledge they require for digital transformations.
If you are leading a digital transformation within your organisation, or have done over the past 18 months, let us help you understand how you can prepare your people, so both individuals and your organisation can realise the potential of the digital revolution we are all currently experiencing.
If you wish to discuss any of the topics covered in this article contact any of the members of our Health Sector team via email. You can also join us virtually on September 29th to discuss how the NHS can get the full benefit of the technology systems they use as we move to a more integrated health and care system. Click here to register so you don’t miss it. Contact details for our Health Sector team team: – Anne Clayton at anne.clayton@melearning.co.uk – Rachel Gordon at rachel.gordon@melearning.co.uk – Shirley Berry at shirley.berry@melearning.co.uk