The software industry is experiencing a revolution in technology at an exponential rate. Such a change often proves to be good; however, sustaining them can be a real challenge, especially for those who are already into a developing or testing job. One might think of becoming an expert with the new technology or would like to seek a senior position by acquiring some additional skills with the latest technology. For either of the things to happen, the big question is “How to make it happen with an already existing tool?”
In my opinion, one must go for training. However, the idea might differ from person to person. Looking at the present culture of the software industry, there are many organizations that formulate training programs on a regular basis. More often, such training sessions are conducted by expert trainers with deep knowledge and experience in the subject.
The importance of attending training
Training always proves to be handy to get a jump on the latest technology and trends, especially in the software industry. With the technology changing every now and then, it is very much required for a developer or a tester to get comfortable with the new technologies. One might get inclined towards the training programs aiming to become an expert; however, there are endless reasons for opting for a training program. Today, the perception of training is to stay on top of the ceaseless technologies, which could give some professional advantage.
Many of the senior software engineers and experts in this field think that training is an ideal way to keep focus on some specific topic. Moreover, one can have a devoted time for this, without hampering the daily work schedule. However, training at work might be challenging, as it could prove to be unproductive at times.
Nonetheless, training can always benefit you personally. Some of the personal benefits of attending training programs are highlighted below.
- Staying updated with current happenings
- Allows you to know some best practices
- Practical implementation with live examples and real-world scenarios
- You get to know new technology without affecting your work
- Certification oriented training can boost your resume
- Creates a strong bond with fellow students and the instructor
With all the above factors, training definitely helps in boosting your productivity and efficiency at work.
Training also gives you a chance to raise questions about the topic and clarify your doubts. This context based learning allows you to know the Why, How, and When aspects of a technique being taught. Moreover, one can also get to know about the architectural issues from the trainer.
Knowing the due importance of training, there are many companies that provide in-house training, whereas many companies send their employees abroad or to some training camps. Why not? You aren’t the only one who gets benefited. By sending their employees for training, a company gains in more ways.
Some of the benefits enjoyed by the company are discussed below.
- Gets more efficient team with reduced ramp up time
- Gets the project completed within the given time frame
- Boost in productivity by the employees
- Helps in saving time from trial and errors
- Skilled employees can prove to be the assets of the company
In spite of all the advantages associated with training, there are times when it becomes difficult to convince your boss for training, especially when you are more interested in attending it. The obvious reason remains the cost. In fact, this is the reason many companies have to select from their employees for training. After all, they can’t send all the employees.
Although training brings value to a company, many organizations consider it as an unnecessary expense. Moreover, it adds serious threat to the companies, as it increases the chance of switching among the employees with more skills. The time is yet another factor, which stop many companies and even the employees from attending training programs. In addition, training programs may not be readily available according to your requirements. However, this is where online training can prove to be a great asset.
Considering all the factors discussed above, many companies are getting more selective while choosing for a training program. Factors like time, cost, and location play a major role in deciding a training program.
However, there are some recommendations that must be looked for.
- Qualified trainers rather than career oriented trainers
- Training plan must include hands-on labs and lectures
- The training must be kept customizable according to your company goals
- Training must be on updated course materials
In this way one can efficiently make use of the training programs to boost personal and professional skills, which can eventually help the company to grow.
