Like every other business sector across the globe, the IT industry has taken some big hits at the beginning of 2020. In the midst of chaos, computers and IT have entered the spotlight with new ways to stay connected and conduct business.

Here are 5 new trends in technology training to be aware of this year, and how you can get started with flexible, on-demand training webinars for your tech staff.

1. eLearning

According to TechJury, 77% of companies in the United States utilized online learning in 2017. Additionally, eLearning allows employees to retain between 25% to 60% more information and leads to an average 42% increase in income for American businesses.

As companies both large and small begin to rely more on technology, the demand for knowledgeable IT staffers will continue to increase. Expect companies, especially those labeled an “essential business” in today’s uncertain climate, to invest more into eLearning solutions to train employees.

2. Webinars 

GoToMeeting suggests that 29% of all webinars published online are created by technology and software companies. This compares to 14% of webinars being created by financial institutions, 11% by educational institutions, 7% each by government and healthcare, and 4% each by insurance, retail, and manufacturing companies. The remaining 10% of training webinars are created by hospitality, travel, real estate, marketing, and non-profit organizations combined.

Expect to see robust, on-demand online technology training webinars proliferate in the IT sector in 2020. Take advantage of the wide variety of technology and software webinars available to provide your employees with comprehensive training and education.

3. Video Training 

Wainhouse Research (WR) took a survey of 1,800 employed professionals on their opinions of video learning. The data revealed that the overwhelming majority of individuals reported that they felt video learning was an effective training tool. 90% of employees at organizations of all sizes reported that they felt both live and on-demand video training made it easier for companies to communicate critical information to their staff.

Simply put, video training works.

4. Virtual Networking

Virtual networking is the process of facilitating communication between multiple virtual servers, machines, computers, and other devices across multiple locations. Where physical networking connects devices via hardware, such as cables, virtual networking does so using the internet and virtual versions of traditional networking tools, such as adapters and switches.

In 2020, teams of all sizes are spread out over multiple locations, making virtual networking critical for companies to survive this year. Skilled IT professionals will need to be extremely well-versed in all things virtual network this year, meaning that comprehensive and effective training will become more important than ever.

5. Technology with Context 

Technology can help businesses thrive in 2020 whereas they may otherwise fail. Companies across the globe will rely on technology and tech professionals this year to stay afloat, but it’s important to remember that tech and tools aren’t enough on their own.

According to Training Journal, technology must have context to be effective. 81% of workers reported that having manager support would help them learn more efficiently, while 70% of workers surveyed said that coaching and mentoring would be helpful. This year, expect to see organizations engaging in technology training with more support available for employees-in-training.

Why Invest in Tech Training in 2020?

The beginning of this year has seen massive changes to business infrastructures across the globe. As telecommuting and virtual learning find roots, it’s more important now than ever for tech employees to be properly educated and trained. Your company simply can’t afford preventable mistakes made by employees who lack training in 2020.

Computer and information technology skills are now highly sought after, and it’s critical that your tech staff are knowledgeable in their role within your business. Flexible, engaging technology training is no longer a luxury -- it’s a necessity. 

Get the Technology Training You Need, When You Need It with Business Watch Network

Stay on top of current industry news and trends with technology training 24/7/365 from Business Watch Network’s e-learning platform. Hear from technology industry leaders in flexible, on-demand webinars. Register now.