On-demand training: An essential thread in your automation fabric 

Automation technology holds immense promise for businesses, offering increased efficiency, streamlined workflows and the power to tackle large-scale challenges with minimal manual effort. Yet, without the skills to fully harness these tools, that promise may go unfulfilled. 

Some companies end up in a frustrating position, having invested heavily in advanced software solutions but failing to realize their full ROI. Coupled with challenges like skilled personnel shortages and high turnover, the cumulative effects leave them struggling to fill resource gaps. 

New data highlights an additional strain: Only 36% of CIOs expect IT headcount growth in 2025. This stark reality underscores the urgency for organizations to make the most of the resources they already have.

Automation software can help bridge these gaps, but it doesn’t operate in isolation. It requires skilled, confident users who can apply it wisely to each use case. Targeted, high-quality training is the answer. 

Product education empowers employees to take ownership of their roles in ways that drive growth, efficiency and long-term success. Proper training can turn former resource needs into opportunities to build a more agile and capable workforce.

The transformative power of online learning for automation success

Learning Management System (LMS) tools have revolutionized how companies approach employee training. No longer constrained by the logistical challenges of in-person instruction, companies can offer ongoing training on everything from cybersecurity protocols and software usage to company values. As of 2023, Gartner reported a 52% increase in demand for LMS software, and skill development continues to be a priority.

For automation software in particular, LMS platforms offer significant advantages. They allow for flexible, self-paced learning to accommodate different schedules, locations and learning styles. They also drastically reduce the cost of scaling training programs by keeping materials online and editable. Instead of sending trainers to new locations, it’s possible to deliver consistent interactive instruction across a distributed workforce at a fraction of the cost.

Most importantly, LMS tools help education teams keep their learners up to date. Automation software evolves rapidly, with new features and integrations introduced regularly. Employees need access to the latest information at all times and from anywhere.

Employee education as a competitive advantage

Investing in education sends a clear message: Your company values its employees and is committed to their success. Furthermore, accessible digital training doesn’t just improve skills — it contributes to outcomes that can differentiate your organization from your competitors. A workforce capable of leveraging cutting-edge automation tools can be the defining factor that sets you apart.

Organizations that invest in employee development have 11% greater profitability and are 2x as likely to retain employees. 

Gallup

Training programs can even drive business outcomes due to their impact on retention and internal mobility, as shown in the graph below. Quality software training can build a more resilient workforce, preventing the loss of institutional knowledge and gaps in expertise that arise when good employees leave.

Today’s workforce values growth and development, and businesses that invest in these areas are more likely to attract and retain top talent.

94% of employees would stay at a company longer if it invested in their professional development.

LinkedIn Learning

The benefits are profound in an automation context, where well-trained teams can quickly and effectively integrate new tools into their workflows, reduce time-to-value and enable smoother collaboration across departments. Building capabilities and confidence turns technical solutions into strategic assets.

Bridging the gap between training and performance

Effective training doesn’t stop with imparting the what and how of a new tool or feature. To truly benefit, you must ensure that learning translates into real-world performance. 

Especially in the case of automation software, which could cause employees’ roles to shift as they’re relieved of repetitive tasks, they need guidance to embrace their evolving responsibilities and continue adding value. For example, training might focus on how automation software can generate actionable insights from data or facilitate better decisions. Automation benefits become more real with these relatable applications, so people feel engaged rather than worried about job security.

Continuous access to learning resources is also a must. A robust library of on-demand resources provides relevant knowledge right when users need it. They can revisit concepts, explore new features and upskill over time.

When training is done right, employees feel inspired, and businesses see tangible improvements in efficiency and decision-making.

How Redwood University sets a new standard

In addition to 24/7 global support, Redwood Software product users get access to Redwood University with no prerequisites. Redwood University was created with the mission of equipping users with everything they need to extract maximum value from their experience with the software. 

Here’s what makes it unique:

• Users first: We are passionate about our learners’ success and strive every day to find new ways to empower and delight them.
• Evidence-based instructional design: Our materials are developed using proven methods that maximize retention.
• Role-based curricula: We tailor content to specific job functions to ensure relevance and make learning paths immediately useful.
• Hands-on learning: Practical simulations, exercises and quizzes created by product experts help learners apply skills in realistic scenarios.
• Flexible structure: Modular training courses allow users to learn at their own pace and focus on specific topics as needed.
• Certifications: We offer formal assessments that validate knowledge and demonstrate capability within the software. These credentials can be uploaded to LinkedIn to further celebrate learners’ achievements.

Automation software is only as valuable as its users’ ability to leverage its power. Redwood University is a dynamic learning resource that goes above and beyond typical training manuals to help you drive real change.

Develop a culture of continuous learning

For companies that have successfully cultivated a continuous learning culture, there’s a case to be made for encouraging the development of active learning opportunities. Such opportunities ensure the learners engage with their trainers and are an effective way to bolster innovation.

TrainingMag

Training isn’t a one-time event. Education should be embedded into the fabric of your organization — and, certainly, the automation fabric you’re developing using Redwood products.

A culture of learning starts with leadership. To cultivate this culture, higher-ups should:

• Encourage active learning opportunities in which employees can interact with peers and those with more advanced skills.
• Promote innovation by opening blocks of time for creative brainstorming and building pathways for new ideas to reach leadership.
• Make learning a seamless, integrated part of work life rather than something your team has to struggle to fit into their schedule.

Continuous learning is easier when your automation software provider reflects this value in its approach. When you use a Redwood product, you get the backing you need to make widespread cultural changes stick.

Already a Redwood customer? Empower your team and transform your business even faster: Sign up for Redwood University.