What is Learning in The Flow of Work and Why is it so Important?

What is learning in the flow of work and why Is it so important?

The concept of Learning in the Flow of Work (LIFOW), was created by Josh Bersin in 2018 and presents a groundbreaking approach to employee training. It involves seamlessly integrating learning opportunities into employees' existing workflow, providing them with relevant training content at the point of need without disrupting their tasks. In this blog we delve into the significance of adopting LIFOW and explore its practical benefits or businesses.

What Does Learning in the Flow of Work Mean in Practice?

LIFOW surpasses the mere convenience of accessible training;it empowers teams with precisely tailored knowledge exactly when they requireit. In the past, employees had to sift through extensive training materials,leading to wasted time and reduced productivity.
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Traditional training software such as Learning Management Systems (LMS) has its technical limitations has further highlighted the need for LIFOW to be more achievable. LMS, with its outdated and cumbersome nature,necessitates learners to be desk-bound, which is impractical for the ever-evolving deskless workforce. Businesses now recognise the significance of integrating learning into employees' daily workflows to make training effective and impactful.
 

This paradigm shift in the learning space emphasises the true impact of training on business performance over conventional completion rates and assessment scores. By serving hyper-relevant training content within the flow of work, learners witness the immediate impact of their newly acquired knowledge, thereby motivating them to apply it more effectively in their roles.Such an approach not only enhances business operations but also provides a strategic pathway for business growth.

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The Unique Benefits of Learning in the Flow of Work
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Improved Engagement

Traditional training methods often struggle to capture employees' attention and interest, leading to disengagement and suboptimal learning outcomes. Learning in the Flow of Work,on the other hand, presents learning opportunities precisely when employees need them most, seamlessly integrating with their daily tasks. By providing relevant, on-the-spot knowledge, LIFOW naturally sparks employees' curiosity and encourages active participation. Engaged learners are more motivated to acquire new skills and knowledge, leading to enhanced retention and application of learning in real-world scenarios.

Increased Productivity

Time is a valuable resource in any workplace, and employees must balance learning with their core responsibilities. LIFOW's strategic integration ensures that training aligns with employees' workflows, eliminating the need for separate, time-consuming training sessions. By accessing learning materials in real-time and within the context of their tasks, employees canswiftly acquire the necessary information and apply it directly, resulting in improved efficiency and productivity. Reduced training time frees up more time for meaningful work, contributing to overall operational effectiveness.

 
It's More Cost-Effective

Traditional training methods, such as off-site workshops or extensive courses, can incur significant expenses for businesses. In contrast, learning in the Flow of Work optimises training delivery by leveraging existing resources and technologies. By integrating learning seamlessly into employees' daily routines, LIFOW eliminates the need for costly off-site sessions or prolonged downtime. Additionally, the ability to provide targeted and relevant learning content ensures that the investment in training delivers higher returns with minimal waste.

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Fostering a Learning Culture

A thriving learning culture is the bedrock of any forward-thinking organisation. Embracing LIFOW signals a commitment to employee development and continuous improvement. As employees experience the tangible benefits of personalised, just-in-time learning, they develop a positive perception of the organisation's commitment to their growth. This fosters a culture of curiosity, adaptability, and a thirst for knowledge. Employees become more proactive in seeking learning opportunities, fostering a self-driven learning environment that is crucial for an organisation's long-term success.

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Embracing Learning in the Flow of Work (LIFOW) is not just a passing trend it represents a transformative approach to employee training and development. By seamlessly integrating relevant learning opportunities into employees' daily workflows, LIFOW ensures that knowledge is accessible when it is needed the most, driving engagement, productivity, and cost-effectiveness.This shift from traditional training methods to LIFOW also underscores the importance of focusing on the actual impact of training on business performance, rather than merely tracking completion rates. The benefits of LIFOW extend beyond immediate improvements in productivity and engagement, it nurtures a dynamic learning culture within the organisation, where employees are empowered to continually seek knowledge and adapt to changing landscapes.

For businesses seeking to thrive in the fast-paced and competitive world, embracing LIFOW is a strategic imperative that will fuel growth, innovation, and success.

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