TRAINING
Digital training brings a new level of flexibility
by Mike Ruff, GW Editor
Technicians and workshop owners are praising Our Virtual Academy for its innovative approach to technical training. GW Views finds out why. WHILE you’re likely to understand the importance of training to update your knowledge and ensure you’re able to efficiently work on today’s vehicles, you’re also likely to recognise the difficulties many independent garage owners face when it comes to taking the time out of the workshop to invest in worthwhile training courses. It’s a predicament that an innovative new digital training concept hopes to eliminate. Our Virtual Academy gives 24/7 access to interactive video content, designed to save garage owners and technicians time and money while also improving workshop productivity.
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Since its launch late last year, the online training service has already attracted more than 2,000 registered users. Andrew Ferris of Ferris Bros in Cardiff has completed a number of modules and told GW Views that it’s “a streamlined new way of training”. “It’s cost effective and extremely flexible because it allows me to do a bit as and when I want to,” he explained. “Only the other day, I had an email advertising a smart charging training course but it’s covered over three evenings and I can’t guarantee that I’ll be available for those dates. “If I went ahead and booked the course, I could find that I’m ill or that something else has come up and I just can’t make it, in which case I’ve not only lost the training opportunity but I’ve also lost my money.”
Flexible training Alan Markworth of Our Virtual Academy told GW that it’s all about training “little and often” rather than in one big burst. He said: “Our training model allows technicians to complete training during the natural down-time in the workshop. “Traditionally, garages have had to face the expense of lost revenue and then there’s the cost of the training course itself plus the travel and accommodation. “There’s always something new to learn but with Our Virtual Academy you can learn where you want, when you want. “It’s an on-demand service so you don’t