In one of my Web logs last month, I talked about training and the importance of your setting the standards. But there’s more. Now more than ever, the importance of human resource development—a long-winded way to say training—cannot be overstressed.
In our June issue, we will be talking about high-end training—the use of simulators and other high-tech approaches to improving equipment-operating skills. When I began to think about all the areas I wanted to cover in our June technology issue, I assumed that simulators were on the ragged edge of acceptance by contractors. It turns out I was wrong. According to the people that make and market them, simulators have been a big and happy surprise, surpassing expectations by a considerable margin.
Why is this, you might ask? That certainly was the first question out of my mouth, though it seems there is no one answer. There is, of course, the obvious one—basic training for new operators—but it doesn’t end there. Some contractors are using simulators in a recruiting role, finding that people at job fairs and similar events are eager to show their skills. So in this role, the computer is not only a baited hook for getting in front of more candidates than ever, but a means for evaluating their skills potential as well.
Strange as it may seem, some contractors use simulators to assess and improve the skills of seasoned operators as well, allowing them to try different approaches to jobs they do all the time to see for themselves if there are better practices.
I won’t go into any more detail on the subject at this point other than to ask that if you use simulators in your business, would you please let me know what your experience has been. In fact if you get back to me quickly we'll see about including your comments in the article.