What is an offboarding checklist? 

You know the drill: one of your talented tech team members has decided to move on to new adventures. While it may be a loss to your organization, it’s essential to ensure a smooth transition for everyone involved. That’s where tech employee offboarding comes into play.

In a nutshell, an offboarding checklist is a comprehensive to-do list that outlines all the necessary steps to be taken when an employee leaves the company. For Learning and Development (L&D) professionals like you, it’s a game changer, as it helps tie up loose ends and contributes to the continued growth and development of both departing and remaining team members.

Fill out the form to download the full tech offboarding checklist!

The cost of tech talent turnover

You know the importance of having a skilled and talented tech team. They’re the engine that powers innovation and keeps the organization running. But here’s the thing – losing, even just one, of these tech-savvy geniuses can cost you a pretty penny, and we’re not just talking about recruitment. 

Let’s say, Alice, who’s been with your company for years, slaying code like it’s nobody’s business, decides to hand in her letter of resignation, and just like that, your tech dream team is down one exceptional player. Cue the costs!

First, there’s the recruitment expense. Finding a tech-savvy replacement for Alice isn’t going to be easy. You’ve got to advertise the position, sort through countless resumes, and conduct interviews that eat up precious time. Not to mention, you may need to seek help from pricey recruitment agencies to widen the talent pool. Research shows that the average cost to recruit a new employee can be upwards of $28,000. This does not include the 4.5% increase companies will pay for salaries and wages due to inflation and employee demands for higher pay.

But the hiring process is only half the story. When you finally find someone to fill Alice’s shoes, there’s the onboarding phase. New hires need to get up to speed with the company’s systems, processes, and team dynamics. And let’s face it – it will take time for a newbie to match Alice’s level of expertise.

But here’s where L&D enters the picture. Learning and Development has to work its magic to bridge the knowledge gap for the new team member and ensure he/she becomes productive as soon as possible. This means investing time and resources in training programs and mentoring.

But wait, there’s more! As a tech prodigy, Alice had invaluable insights and domain knowledge that she passed on to her colleagues over the years. Now that she’s gone, all that knowledge goes with her, and it’s not like she left a step-by-step guide for her replacement. The loss of institutional knowledge is a hidden cost that often goes unnoticed.

Why do I need an offboarding checklist for my IT department?

Offboarding tech employees is a collaborative effort that typically requires Human Resources and IT to work in tandem to revoke access to company systems (this is especially important for IT and security staff), recover equipment, conduct exit interviews, and help departing employees exit on a good note. 

A solid checklist will provide the assurance that you have dealt with every component of the offboarding process, which can help to mitigate risk along the way. 

Let’s explore some of the reasons why this checklist is vital when offboarding tech employees: 

1. Knowledge Transfer: When a tech employee departs, they often take with them a wealth of specialized knowledge and skills. An offboarding checklist ensures that this knowledge is properly documented and transferred to their colleagues or successors. It enables you to create knowledge repositories and facilitates seamless knowledge sharing, minimizing the impact of their departure on team performance.
2. Identifying Skill Gaps: Going through the offboarding checklist gives you an opportunity to assess the skills and expertise that will be missing from the team after the employee’s departure. This insight helps you identify skill gaps within the team, allowing you to plan targeted training and development programs to address those areas and maintain a high level of proficiency.
3. Employee Feedback: Exit interviews are a key component of the offboarding process. They provide a platform for departing employees to share their honest feedback about their experiences, the organization’s culture, and potential areas for improvement. As a Learning and Development professional, this feedback can be invaluable in refining training programs, fostering a better work environment, and enhancing employee retention strategies.
4. Enhancing Succession Planning: Through the offboarding checklist, you can identify potential successors within the team or elsewhere in the organization. Succession planning is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition of responsibilities and preventing any adverse effects on projects or team productivity.
5. Preserving Relationships: Offboarding isn’t just about cutting ties; it’s also about maintaining connections. When employees leave on a positive note, they may become brand advocates or even return to the organization in the future. By providing a well-structured offboarding experience, you create a lasting impression that can have positive ramifications for your employer brand.
6. Legal and Security Compliance: With data breaches and security concerns on the rise, it’s essential to safeguard sensitive company information during an employee’s departure. The offboarding checklist includes steps to revoke access to systems, recover company-owned devices, and ensure compliance with legal and security protocols.

Technical staff off-boarding steps

Off-boarding technical staff is an important process to ensure a smooth transition and maintain data security. Here’s a list of steps to consider for technical staff offboarding:

Schedule and exit meeting: 

Plan a meeting with the departing staff member to discuss the offboarding process, collect equipment, and address any concerns they might have.

Notify IT and HR departments: 

Inform the IT and HR Teams about the staff member’s departure date and offboarding requirements.

Account Access Review:

Conduct an audit of the staff member’s access to company systems, applications, and databases. Remove or restrict access to sensitive information and ensure only relevant access remains.

Remember, each off-boarding situation may have unique requirements, so be sure to tailor the process to meet individual needs while adhering to company policies and data security guidelines.

To access the complete tech employee off-boarding checklist, complete the form above.

To find out more about our courses, labs, and exams, request a free demo now. 

The post Tech Employee Off-Boarding: A Comprehensive Checklist for HR Leaders appeared first on Cloud Academy.

In this post, we’ll explore the essential skills that every cloud engineer should possess and help you assess whether your team has what it takes to thrive in a cloud-first environment across multiple teams with competing responsibilities. 

The technical side of cloud engineering

For a cloud engineer, proficiency in key tech areas has become more than a feather in one’s cap – it’s necessary to prove and use those skills on the job. 

Designing cloud solutions requires expertise in the areas of virtualization, networking, security, and automation, as well as containers and orchestration tools like Kubernetes. These are must-have skills for provisioning resources, monitoring performance, and troubleshooting issues.

A cloud engineer should also have a strong understanding of the major cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP), and be well-versed in their capabilities and limitations. 

Take a moment to assess your team’s familiarity with the cloud platforms you use. Are they AWS certified? Do they know their way around Azure or GCP? Investing in cloud platform certifications and training can help equip your team with the skills necessary to excel in their roles.

Cloud Academy can help tech professionals build hands-on skills or get certified. Our Certification Learning Paths include everything you need to advance your team’s tech skills in no time. To learn more about our certifications or to request a demo

What are Soft Skills?

While technical prowess is undoubtedly a given, there are other skills that often go overlooked but are just as important: Soft skills. In fact, research shows that 85% of career success comes from having well-developed soft skills.

Also known as “people skills”, soft skills include a range of interpersonal and communication abilities that help professionals to work effectively in a team, collaborate with colleagues and clients, and adapt to changing circumstances.  

Identifying soft skills during the hiring process can help HR and tech leads build the stand-out tech teams their businesses need. 

Collaboration and communication

Cloud engineers don’t work in isolation. Effective communication and collaboration skills are essential for translating technical concepts into actionable plans and aligning cloud initiatives with business objectives.

Consider how well your team communicates and collaborates with others. Are they actively participating in meetings and discussions? Are they able to convey complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders? Strong interpersonal skills are vital for well-rounded cloud engineers. 

Solid time management

Having good -or bad- time management skills can create a ripple effect on the rest of the team. Exceptional cloud engineers are masters at juggling multiple projects simultaneously, and successfully completing cloud-based initiatives on time and on budget. 

Sound problem solving

Cloud systems encounter issues related to scalability, security, and performance all the time, and engineers must be able to swiftly diagnose and resolve these challenges. Effective problem-solving skills are needed to minimize downtime and maintain the integrity of critical data and applications. 

Evaluate your team’s ability to troubleshoot cloud-related issues. Are they using monitoring and logging tools effectively? Do they have a documented incident response plan? Being proactive in addressing and resolving issues is necessary for maintaining the reliability of your cloud infrastructure. 

A great way to test your team’s problem-solving skills is with hands-on labs and sandboxes that provide immediate feedback, a risk-free environment for experimentation, and opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. 

Continuous Learning and Adaptability

The cloud landscape is constantly changing. Successful cloud engineers are committed to continuous learning and adaptability. They stay up to date with the latest cloud trends, technologies, and best practices.

Ask yourself if your team is investing in continuous learning. Are they pursuing certifications and attending industry events? Encourage a culture of learning within your team to ensure they can adapt to new challenges and opportunities in the cloud space.

Did your team make the cut? 

If not, it’s okay, it just means there is work to be done. Partnering with an experienced e-learning provider can help you to develop the skills you need within your group.

And remember that while technical skills are the foundation, soft skills are the glue that holds a successful cloud engineering team together.  Identify your stars and create a mentoring program to help foster a culture of growth within the group. And before you know it you’ll be well on your way to building the rockstar tech team your company needs.

For more information on how Cloud Academy help you along your journey to the Cloud

The post Skills Every Successful Cloud Engineer Should Possess – Does Your Team Have Them All? appeared first on Cloud Academy.

As more businesses implement virtual elements into their learning strategies, virtual instructor-led training (vILT) has quickly become the de facto method for delivering cloud training to learners.

But even as organizations take the plunge into virtual classrooms, many still have no clue how to make them more engaging and productive. 

In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of vILT and self-paced learning, and how together, they can help to turn your tech employees into habitual power users of your new IT-training platform. 

Understanding the importance of adoption and engagement

Learner engagement is a common concern among IT leaders: “If I make the investment, will they come? Let’s face it, a training program that fails to maintain the interest of its end-user is over before it ever begins.

Achieving high user adoption rates is the ideal outcome of any IT training program. It means more employees are likely to complete the training and benefit the organization by improving individual performance and increasing productivity. 

To achieve high user adoption rates, an IT training program needs to have a user-centric focus. This requires a deep dive into the specific needs and preferences of employees, and designing a program tailored to individual learning styles and job responsibilities.

What is vILT?

vILT isn’t new, but it is making a comeback. And chances are you’ve unknowingly taken part in it. Live online, webinars, virtual training, it’s called many things, but simply put it is training that is delivered in a virtual environment. The training is delivered in real-time by a qualified live instructor, providing the learner an opportunity to connect with the content, classmates, and the trainer.

Unlike traditional training modalities, vILT allows SaaS training providers to reach a larger, more dispersed audience, providing more flexibility for the learner, and eliminating the need for travel, which explains its 51% growth spurt.   

Becca Byers, Sr. Product Marketing Manager at Cloud Academy, has witnessed this paradigm shift firsthand. 

“We’ve seen both Fortune 500 organizations and smaller businesses embrace vILT, particularly when the instructor-led learning is blended with self-paced learning,” says Byers. “Participants report that the vILT sessions add excitement and relevance to their learning, while managers report that staff grow more confident in using job-ready skills.”

With Cloud Academy’s up-to-date content and learner-centric platform, you can build your team’s tech skills at scale and at the speed you need. To learn more about our courses 

How does vILT enhance self-paced learning?

Research shows that top-notch online learning programs that combine synchronous vILT with asynchronous online training can help to improve engagement and fact retention by upwards of 600%. 

vILT amplifies self-paced learning by combining the advantages of autonomous learning with expert guidance, real-world application, adaptive pathways, and continuous feedback. 

Its flexible structure provides training that meets the learners where they are in life and work while offering the support and direction of skilled instructors. Through vILT, learners can achieve a deeper understanding of complex concepts, collaborate with peers, apply knowledge practically, and receive personalized attention all at a pace that works for them.

“We had a lot of people who grew more confident after attending your Live Lab Challenge. It was excellent!” – US Federal Customer

Activities like live labs provide practical, hands-on experience that goes beyond the standard asynchronous learning experience, providing immediate feedback, a risk-free environment for experimentation, and opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. 

These factors collectively empower learners to feel more confident in their ability to use cloud applications effectively in their professional roles.

The combination of self-paced learning and vendor-provided vILT creates a potent synergy that optimizes the training experience. When harnessed effectively, this power blend can help learners take control of their learning journey while enjoying the benefits of structured guidance and a vibrant learning community.

Here at Cloud Academy, these vILT opportunities are included in our Success Services packages. For more details, read our Success Services Announcement.

To learn more about Cloud Academy’s courses or to request a demo

The post Grow Your Cloud Skills: Enhancing Self-Paced Learning through Virtual Instructor-Led Training (vILT) appeared first on Cloud Academy.

Yes, cloud e-learning and technical e-learning courses were provided. But unfortunately, the mainstream provider missed the mark on service. They were unresponsive. The customer success team didn’t set up mission-critical integrations, and they didn’t provide added value to enhance the e-learning with “pillars” of engaging experience. So the oil and gas company made the switch to Cloud Academy — where customer success and white-glove service are provided in spades.

Here at Cloud Academy, we have a 98% CSAT (customer satisfaction) score because we are all about building relationships beyond the initial sale. We believe your selected training provider should be an extension of your in-house team, and foster a symbiotic relationship built on trust, collaboration, and mutual growth.

Debunking Common Myths

Unfortunately, misconceptions about customer success can undermine their importance and lead to missed opportunities. Let’s debunk some of these myths:

#1 ” Good content is all that matters in training. I don’t need the extras.”

Quality content is undoubtedly essential, but without proper support, learners might struggle to utilize it effectively. Customer success enhances the overall learning journey and amplifies the impact of the content.

#2 “Customer success is only for technical issues”

While technical support is a part of the equation, customer success encompasses a wider spectrum. They include onboarding assistance, personalized guidance, best practice sharing, and more. These services contribute to holistic success, not just technical problem-solving.

#3  “Customer success is unnecessary”

Selecting a provider with excellent customer success is an investment in the success of your team and your business. The benefits in terms of user satisfaction, engagement, and retention often far outweigh the costs. Neglecting customer success can lead to employee dissatisfaction and attrition – not to mention other issues, as illustrated by the oil & gas company mentioned earlier.

#4  “I don’t need to customize a team training program” 

Internal Cloud Academy metrics aggregated across nearly 800 enterprise clients and nearly 1 million users show that personalized learning with the help of customer success can lead not only to improved performance but engagement rates upwards of 70%. 

Training content that is customized to address your specific job roles, cloud services, and company priorities can make all the difference to your team’s learning journey. 

#5  “I’ll have time to do all the administrative work myself” 

In most cases, you won’t. Customer success can help to alleviate the administrative burdens associated with onboarding, and the setup and configuration of new services.

How to choose the right training partner

Distinguishing exceptional customer success from the rest requires attention to specific qualities.

Look for reviews on platforms like G2 that help B2B buyers make decisions based on trusted peer feedback. Customer testimonials and case studies are another way to narrow down your search and gauge the effectiveness and reliability of a training program. Platforms that have established partnerships or affiliations with industry leaders and organizations can also be indicators of credibility and quality. 

Compare various training delivery methods, such as online, blended, or face-to-face, to choose what best suits your preferences and constraints. Also, flexibility is key, consider providers that offer relevant, customizable, engaging content that is scalable. 

For more on this topic, read our latest post, How to choose the right IT training provider for your business.

Success Service Packages by Cloud Academy

Cloud Academy provides not only unrivaled, responsive customer success and support but also a unique offering to enhance e-learning success and bolster engagement. New to the Cloud Academy lineup, Success Service Packages reimagine how businesses approach learning and development for their tech teams. Our Success Services offering amplifies our effective catalog of self-paced training on cloud skills. It is a selection of professional services and live instructor-led learning opportunities, hand-picked by our training experts.

They are called  “success services” because they are more than just transactional, one-off projects – they are designed to improve the success of your learning program.

Cloud Academy Success Services include:

• Live sessions for learner engagement
• Training curation to analyze needs & develop custom syllabi
• Masterclasses for upskilling staff with immersive ILT
• L&D workshops for leaders to maximize training ROI

For more on this new and exciting service offering you can read our recent release, Announcing Cloud Academy’s Success Services: Bringing Learner Engagement to New Heights.

Conclusion

The role of unrivaled customer success cannot be underestimated. Dispelling common misconceptions about customer success, and understanding the qualities of exceptional customer support will empower stakeholders to make informed decisions when choosing an e-learning vendor. 

For more information on how Cloud Academy can support your journey to the cloud,

The post The Transformative Power of Customer Success in Maximizing SaaS Adoption appeared first on Cloud Academy.

In this blog post, we’ll explore why effective onboarding for new tech hires is not just an option but a strategic imperative, and provide a comprehensive onboarding checklist to help you properly bring your new hires into the fold.

Fill out the form to download the full tech onboarding checklist!

The tech talent war

Before we get into the importance of onboarding, let’s set the stage by acknowledging the fierce competition for tech talent. It’s a battlefield out there, and tech professionals are the sought-after warriors. Companies of all sizes are vying for the same pool of skilled tech workers, making it vital to not only attract but also retain skilled technical staff.

Given this context, HR leaders must understand that simply recruiting tech talent is not enough. To truly benefit from their skills and knowledge, you need a robust onboarding process in place.

For more information on the tech talent shortage read our blog post, The Tech Talent Shortage: Everything You Need to Know

What’s an onboarding checklist?

A tech onboarding checklist is a step-by-step guide that outlines the necessary tasks, activities, and information that need to be completed and provided during the onboarding process.

This roadmap of sorts can help an HR team stay organized and on task, ensuring that no important steps are overlooked. It covers everything from paperwork and equipment setup to introductions, training, and performance expectations.

Research shows that 76% of professionals feel that onboarding is underutilized in their organizations. This is a pretty jarring stat considering the competitive advantage a positive onboarding experience can bring.

By following a tech onboarding checklist, HR professionals can provide new tech employees with a structured and well-planned onboarding experience, setting them up for success in their new roles.

Tech industry onboarding costs

Tech onboarding costs can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the company, the complexity of the role, and the location of the hire. Some common expenses associated with onboarding tech talent include recruitment costs, training and development programs, equipment and software setup, and ongoing support and mentoring.

Why do I need an onboarding checklist for my IT department?

Onboarding new employees in IT can be a complex process. This is why having an onboarding checklist specifically tailored for the IT department is essential.

A formal onboarding process helps new hires:

• Familiarize themselves with the hardware and software they’ll be using
• Set up corporate accounts
• Learn and follow security guidelines
• Feel confident they have the tools to get their work done

The checklist provides a structured and organized approach to onboarding, making the process smoother and more efficient for both HR professionals and new hires. 

How to onboard your new tech talent?

Because every tech job comes with its own nuances, the learning curve can be steep for even the savviest of new tech hires. Therefore, an effective onboarding process should:

• Introduce technologies, tools, and workflows used on the job.
• Build community, belonging, and team cohesion.
• Outline the mission, values, and history of the organization.

Here are some steps that can be implemented every time a new tech employee joins the business:

Pre-onboarding activities

Take these steps to make sure everything is in place before the new employees start their first day.

1. Review the new hire’s background and job description: Familiarize yourself with the new hire’s skills, experience, and job responsibilities. This will help you tailor their onboarding experience to their specific needs and ensure they have the resources they need to succeed.

2. Prepare necessary paperwork: Ensure that all required paperwork, such as tax forms, employment contracts, and confidentiality agreements, are ready for the new hire to complete on their first day. This will save time and streamline the onboarding process.

3. Set up workstations and equipment: Make sure the new employee’s workstation is set up and ready for their arrival. This includes providing them with a computer, software, and any other tools or equipment they may need to perform their job.

4. Coordinate with IT: Work with the IT department to ensure that the new employee’s email, network access, and any necessary software or systems are set up and ready for use.

5. Communicate with the team: Inform the existing team members about the new hire’s start date and role. Encourage them to reach out and welcome the new employee, fostering a sense of community and support.

Remember, onboarding is so much more than policies and paperwork; it’s about acclimating and integrating new hires, so they feel prepared, supported, and connected within your organization. By committing to a positive onboarding experience, you are setting new team members up for long-term success. From improved loyalty to increased productivity, the best onboarding experiences pay high dividends.

(Bonus) How to onboard a new tech employee remotely

Remote onboarding for tech staff has become increasingly common.  And while it may present some unique challenges, a solid onboarding program can be easily tailored to meet the needs of a remote, or hybrid workforce. 

Communication is key

When it comes to your remote workforce, communication is everything. In addition to your standard onboarding procedures, make sure to schedule virtual meetings and video calls to introduce new tech hires to their team members and key stakeholders. Use video conferencing tools to conduct face-to-face introductions and provide opportunities for team members to share their roles and responsibilities. This will help the new employee build relationships and establish connections with their colleagues.

Provide detailed documentation

Additionally, provide comprehensive documentation and resources to support the new tech employee’s learning and development. This could include online training modules, video tutorials, or access to a knowledge base. Encourage them to reach out with any questions or concerns and ensure that they have a designated point of contact for ongoing support and guidance.

Establish clear goals

It is also important to set clear expectations and goals for the new tech employee’s role. Provide them with a detailed job description and performance metrics, and schedule regular check-ins to provide feedback and assess their progress. This will help them stay on track and aligned with the company’s goals and expectations.

Encourage community

Lastly, create opportunities for the new tech employee to socialize and connect with their colleagues, even in a remote setting. Consider organizing virtual team-building activities, online happy hours, or chat channels for casual conversations. This will help foster a sense of belonging and community, even when working from different locations.

To sum it up

Remote onboarding for tech staff requires careful planning and coordination. By leveraging technology, providing clear communication and support, and creating opportunities for connection and collaboration, you can successfully onboard new tech employees and set them up for long-term success in their remote roles.

To learn more about Cloud Academy’s training courses or to schedule a free demo

The post The Tech Employee Onboarding Checklist: A Template for HR Leaders appeared first on Cloud Academy.

At Cloud Academy, we recognize that success isn’t merely about having the training content – it’s about enabling individuals and teams to thrive in their roles, leveraging tip-of-the-spear training to accomplish business goals like greater cloud adoption, faster product development, smarter AI and ML options, and reduced Total Cost of Ownership in the cloud. This understanding has led us to craft Success Services Packages, a selection of virtual instructor-led training experiences and expert content curation services that take learner engagement to new heights. As Greg Schwartzkhopf, VP of Customer Success at Cloud Academy, aptly puts it,

 “With Success Services, we’re answering our client’s biggest challenges: engagement and adoption of training. We understand that each organization has its distinct way of operating and learning. Success Services is all about harnessing the power of customization and relevance to drive skill readiness.”

Success Services Packages include your choice of the following services on a monthly retainer basis:

Training Curation: Optimize for Engagement

One-size-fits-all approaches have no place in the busy world of IT training – your team already has enough on their plate. Cloud Academy’s Success Services reshapes the learning experience through meticulous training curation. We take the time to listen and understand your unique roles, company priorities, and timelines. Armed with this insight, we curate training experiences that are tailored to your exact needs: whether that’s getting a team certification-ready in 60 hours or less; building a custom learning path to reskill staff into SRE and DevOps roles and Cloud Architect roles, and much more.

Live Sessions: Boosting Learner Participation

Live learning experiences have an unrivaled ability to captivate and engage learners. Cloud Academy’s Success Services bring this power to the forefront with live, relevant, and topic-based sessions conducted by our team of technical Subject Matter Experts (SMEs). Session types include: 

1. Live Lab Challenges that improve participation in learning through event-based, gamified, cohort-oriented experiences. These are fun, hands-on opportunities for staff to go head-to-head with peers in a cloud scenario.
2. Ask an Expert sessions that add context and relevance to cloud technology concepts, and real-world applications through conversation with subject matter experts.
3. Exam Preparation that accelerates certification efforts and improves staff confidence and pass rates, by giving the opportunity to ask questions of an SME.

Master Classes: Immersive Understanding

Virtual instructor-led training is taken to the next level with Cloud Academy’s Master Classes: half-day events that produce big skill gains without the pain of losing your staff for a whole day. These classes provide an immersive blend of interactive learning and optional post-work, enabling your cohort to delve deeper into the subject matter. Whether it’s tackling DevSecOps, Kubernetes, Terraform, Snowflake, or a review of cloud concepts, Master Classes offer an enriched learning journey that empowers learners to achieve true mastery.

L&D Workshops: Maximizing Learning ROI

Want to know how to take training to the next level? Leverage expert-led workshops to refine your training program and unlock greater value from learning. Cloud Academy’s Success Services include L&D workshops that empower your organization to maximize the Return on Investment (ROI) of your learning initiatives. These workshops provide the strategic insights and methodologies needed to fine-tune your training program, align it with business objectives, and drive tangible outcomes.

The era of off-the-shelf training experiences is behind us. With Cloud Academy’s Success Services, organizations have the opportunity to embrace customized, relevant, and transformative learning that brings learner engagement to new heights.

For more details on Cloud Academy’s training platform and Success Services Packages, contact one of our knowledgeable reps today.

The post Announcing Cloud Academy’s Success Services: Bringing Learner Engagement to New Heights appeared first on Cloud Academy.

These pitfalls can lead to inefficiencies, vulnerabilities, and missed opportunities. Let’s take a closer look at these challenges and discover how you can navigate them seamlessly — with the right tools and approach.

Common pitfalls of modernization

The complacency trap: In the rush to modernize, businesses often view it as a one-off project. They invest heavily in new technologies, only to let them become obsolete due to a lack of continuous learning. As the technological landscape evolves, skills that were relevant yesterday might become outdated tomorrow. The pitfall here is complacency.

The alignment issue: IT teams, in their enthusiasm to adopt the latest technologies, might overlook how these align with the company’s strategic goals. This misalignment can lead to squandered resources and lost opportunities.

The security oversight: With new tech adoption comes new cyber threats. In the race to modernize, security can sometimes take a backseat. A single security lapse can have catastrophic consequences, from data breaches to financial losses.

How Cloud Academy helps navigate these pitfalls

At Cloud Academy, we’ve seen these challenges firsthand and have crafted solutions to address them head-on.

Emphasis on skills readiness: Cloud Academy empowers teams to learn, practice, and master multi-cloud skills. By offering a platform where users can manage and build their cloud, software development, and data skills, businesses are better equipped to stay ahead of the curve. It’s not just about having access to technology; it’s about mastering it.

Structured learning: Unlike many e-learning platforms that seemingly offer content randomly, Cloud Academy provides a structured approach. This proactive management of skills, combined with advanced software and premium content, makes sure teams are always ready to leverage the latest technologies effectively.

Skill management: With insights into a team’s current skills, Cloud Academy lets businesses plan for growth and close skill gaps with immersive training. This verifies the workforce is always equipped to harness modern technologies to their fullest potential.

Personalization and content engine: Cloud Academy is tailored for tech teams of all sizes. With the ability to customize the platform’s library, businesses can create their own courses, learning paths, and exams. This blend of personalized content keeps training aligned with the company’s specific needs and objectives.

Job role paths: Emphasizing career growth, Cloud Academy offers job role paths that help employees with career progression and focused learning. This not only boosts employee morale but also validates that teams have the right skills for the right roles.

Pre-hire assessments: Before bringing new talent on board, Cloud Academy’s assessments help companies gauge the true tech skills of potential hires. This promises a better fit, faster onboarding, and a workforce that’s ready to tackle modernization challenges from day one.

Always updated content: In the ever-evolving tech world, staying updated is crucial. Cloud Academy works hard to make sure that their content, hands-on labs, and certification paths are always in sync with the latest trends and technologies.

Taking the next step

So, where do you go from here? Whether you’re just starting your modernization journey or looking to fine-tune it, remember that the right tools, paired with the right knowledge, can make all the difference.

If you’re curious about how to further empower your team or want to go deeper into any of the potential pitfalls of modernization, we’re here to help. Dive into our solutions or book a demo to see how we can tailor solutions to your unique needs.

In the world of modernization, challenges are inevitable, but with the right approach, they’re not insurmountable. Let’s navigate this journey together.

The post Navigating the Challenges of Modernization with Cloud Academy appeared first on Cloud Academy.

From healthcare and finance to manufacturing and entertainment, organizations heavily rely on IT systems to enhance efficiency, streamline operations, and deliver seamless experiences to customers. 

Within this dynamic ecosystem, the roles of IT training and vendor management have emerged as critical components in ensuring operational efficiency and organizational sustainability. 

In this article we’ll:

• Cover the basics of IT training vendor management: What it is and why it’s important 
• Explain the role IT training plays in bridging the knowledge gap; and 
• Offer recommendations for integrating Cloud Academy’s training within your organization

What is IT training vendor management

IT training vendor management is simply the process of identifying, selecting, contracting, and overseeing external training providers for specialized learning needs within an organization.

And it’s about more than just cost efficiency. These procedures can help companies improve service quality, and obtain the greatest value from their IT training partners.

For tips on choosing a training provider that best meets the needs of your organization, read our latest post, How to Choose the Right Cloud Training Provider for Your Business.

The importance of effective IT training vendor management

IT training vendor management is not just about outsourcing training to external partners; it’s about strategically selecting partners that align with the organization’s goals and needs. By doing so, businesses can foster a workforce that is not only proficient in the latest technologies but also adaptable and agile in the face of constant digital transformations.

The careful selection and management of training vendors can empower companies to enhance employee skills, reduce costs, and ultimately achieve their strategic goals. As technology continues to change, the significance of IT training vendor management will only grow, cementing its position as a cornerstone of modern business success.

The role of IT managers in overseeing vendor training programs 

The role of the IT manager has expanded to include a myriad of responsibilities, some of which are overseeing training programs and identifying skill gaps within a tech team. 

With a deep understanding of the organization’s IT goals and evolving industry trends, IT managers are primed to discern the competencies required to drive innovation and operational efficiency. By conducting thorough assessments, IT managers can gain insight into areas where training is needed most, enabling them to design targeted programs that address these gaps directly.

And it’s a collaborative effort. Tech professionals in this role often work closely with learning and development and HR departments to craft training programs that not only address knowledge gaps, but also align with broader business objectives, contributing to the overall success of the business.

It’s a symbiotic relationship

Rather than maintaining standard, transactional relationships, IT training vendor management helps businesses to cultivate proactive, collaborative partnerships. 

These relationships can provide valuable benefits that can significantly improve the effectiveness of training programs.

The interdependence of IT training and vendor management cannot be stressed enough. As organizations engage with external vendors to meet various IT needs, the proficiency of the in-house IT team becomes pivotal in evaluating vendor capabilities and ensuring successful collaboration. A well-trained IT team possesses the expertise to effectively communicate requirements, evaluate proposals, and align vendor services with the organization’s strategic objectives.

Conversely, vendors benefit from organizations with a skilled IT workforce. Clear and informed communication with vendors streamlines project implementation, reduces misunderstandings, and increases the likelihood of successful outcomes. In essence, a capable IT team acts as a bridge between the organization and its vendors, facilitating the seamless integration of external services into the business’s IT ecosystem.

Measuring the effectiveness of vendor training

Training is an investment. However, the value of such investments hinges on the effectiveness of the chosen IT training vendor. Here are some ways to accurately measure the impact of your training provider:

Employee feedback

Collecting feedback through surveys or interviews can provide valuable insights into the impact of the training on employee skills, knowledge, and confidence. This feedback can help organizations identify areas for improvement and make adjustments to their training programs as needed.

Tracking KPIs

By tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) related to the use of cloud technologies, organizations can determine if the training has resulted in improved productivity, efficiency, or cost savings. These metrics can also help identify any gaps or areas where additional training may be needed.

Monitoring employee engagement

Organizations can assess the effectiveness of vendor training by monitoring employee engagement and satisfaction levels. High levels of engagement and satisfaction indicate that the training has resonated with employees and provided value to their roles.

Overall, measuring the effectiveness of vendor training is essential for organizations to ensure that their training investments are paying off and driving the desired outcomes. By regularly assessing the impact of training programs, organizations can make data-driven decisions to optimize their training strategies and maximize the benefits of tech adoption.

Integrating Cloud Academy’s training within your organization

The integration of Cloud Academy‘s training within your organization can be a transformative step towards enhancing productivity, innovation, and competitiveness.

Assess your training needs

The first step in integrating Cloud Academy’s training is to conduct a thorough assessment of your organization’s training needs. Identify the skills gaps within your teams and determine which cloud technologies are most relevant to your industry and business objectives. Cloud Academy’s diverse training library covers a wide array of cloud platforms, technologies, and practices, making it easier to tailor training to your organization’s specific requirements.

Set clear objectives

Define clear training objectives that align with your organization’s strategic goals. Are you looking to migrate to the cloud, optimize existing cloud infrastructure, or build cloud-native applications? Establishing precise goals will guide the selection of relevant training paths and modules from Cloud Academy’s platform.

Customize learning paths

Cloud Academy provides customizable learning paths that enable organizations to curate training journeys for their employees. These paths incorporate a mix of courses, labs, quizzes, and hands-on projects, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience. By tailoring learning paths to match the skill levels and roles of your employees, you can maximize the impact of the training.

Support continuous learning

Integration isn’t a one-time endeavor; it’s an ongoing commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning. Cloud Academy’s platform supports this by providing regular updates to its content, keeping pace with the latest advancements in cloud technology. Encourage employees to set aside dedicated time for learning, and provide the necessary resources and support for their growth.

Monitor progress and performance

Cloud Academy’s platform provides tools to monitor the progress and performance of individual learners. Track their completion of courses, labs, and assessments to ensure they’re making meaningful strides. This data can also help identify areas where additional support or training might be needed.

Encourage certification

Certifications validate expertise and demonstrate a commitment to excellence. Cloud Academy offers preparation courses for various cloud certifications, enabling employees to earn credentials that showcase their proficiency. These certifications not only enhance their credibility but also contribute to the overall competitiveness of your organization.

Foster a learning community

Promote collaboration and knowledge sharing among employees by fostering a learning community. Encourage discussions around the training material, share success stories, and provide a platform for employees to seek guidance from peers. Cloud Academy’s platform facilitates social learning, enabling users to connect and learn from each other.

The integration process requires careful planning, dedication, and a commitment to nurturing a culture of learning. With Cloud Academy’s versatile platform as your ally, your organization can navigate the complexities of the cloud with confidence.

To learn more about Cloud Academy’s training courses or to schedule a demo

The post IT Training Vendor Management: An In-depth Look appeared first on Cloud Academy.

You have your list of requirements. You understand the specific needs of your business, and the goals you want to achieve. But with so many different choices, features, and capabilities on the market, how are you supposed to know which option is best? Making a decision is not easy. But it doesn’t have to be difficult either.

In this post we’ve taken the liberty of doing some of the work for you. Here we’ll explain what to look for in an e-learning platform, provide a list of some of the top cloud training vendors you should consider, and a brief overview of the features and benefits offered by each one.

What’s driving the increased demand for cloud training

One of the key factors driving the demand for cloud training platforms is the rapid growth of the cloud market. According to Gartner, the worldwide public cloud end-user spend is projected to grow by 21.7% in 2023, reaching a total value of $597.3 billion. By the year 2026, it is predicted that 75% of organizations will adopt a digital transformation model predicated on cloud as the fundamental underlying platform. 

With such significant growth, organizations are recognizing the need to invest in training that will ensure that their tech teams have the skills needed to effectively utilize cloud solutions today, tomorrow, and beyond. Cloud training will become an essential component for any organization aiming to build a cloud-ready workforce.

The benefits of cloud training platforms

Why choose virtual cloud training? It’s flexible and convenient! With cloud-based platforms, learners have the ability to access training materials and resources from anywhere, at any time. This allows individuals to learn at their own pace and convenience, without being tied to a specific location or schedule. Whether you prefer to study early in the morning or late at night, before, during or after work, cloud-based platforms offer the flexibility to accommodate your unique learning style and schedule.

Another unique benefit is the wide range of learning resources they offer. These platforms often provide access to a variety of learning materials, such as video lectures, interactive modules, practice exams, and real-world projects. This diverse range of resources ensures a comprehensive and well-rounded learning experience, that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application. Learners can engage with the content in a way that best suits their learning preferences and goals.

Cloud-based platforms also offer the advantage of scalability. As cloud tech continues to evolve, these training platforms can quickly pivot and update their courses to reflect the latest industry trends and advancements.

Ongoing support and assistance is another great feature. Learners can access support resources, such as online forums or live chat, where they can ask questions, seek clarification, and receive guidance throughout their training journey. This support system ensures that learners have the help they need, whenever they need it, enhancing their overall learning experience.

Key considerations when selecting a cloud training platform

When evaluating a cloud training solution, there are multiple factors that must be considered. These considerations will ensure that the chosen platform aligns with specific needs and goals, ultimately providing the most effective and comprehensive cloud education experience.

1. Curriculum

It’s crucial to assess whether the training program covers all the necessary topics and skills required. Look for a platform that offers a wide range of courses and certifications, including fundamental cloud concepts, infrastructure management, security, and vendor-specific training. Cloud Academy’s AWS courses are a perfect example of this offering. Currently AWS offers 12 certifications at four different levels — Foundational – Specialty — Our courses, hands-on labs, and quizzes are closely aligned to each AWS certification exam guide so that you get exactly what you need to prepare for and pass your exams.

For more on Cloud Academy’s AWS certification program, visit our AWS Certifications page. For help deciding which AWS certifications are best for you and your team, read our in-depth post, The 12 AWS Certifications: Which is Right for You and Your Team?

2. Teaching methodology

Look for platforms that offer a variety of learning formats, such as virtual instructor-led lectures, hands-on labs, real-world projects, and cloud sandboxes. This ensures a well-rounded learning experience.

3. Flexibility and accessibility

When to train is a concern voiced by both organizations and individuals alike. They want to learn, and you need them to learn, but not at the expense of an already hectic workload. This is why flexibility and accessibility are essential considerations.

Look for platforms that offer on-demand access to training materials, allowing individuals to learn at their own pace and convenience. The platform should also provide access to support resources, such as online forums or live chat, where learners can ask questions and receive assistance when needed.

4. Cost

Pricing isn’t everything, but a good one definitely helps. Evaluate the pricing model of the platform, whether it’s a one-time payment, monthly subscription, or pay-per-course basis. Consider the value offered by the platform in terms of the quality of the training, resources provided, and industry-recognized certifications. It’s important to strike a balance between affordability and the quality of the training received.

5. Reputation

Lastly, consider the reputation and track record of the platform. Look for reviews and testimonials from past users to gauge the effectiveness and reliability of the training programs. Platforms that have established partnerships or affiliations with industry leaders and organizations can also be indicators of credibility and quality.

By carefully considering these key factors, you can select a cloud training platform that meets your specific needs, addresses skill gaps within your team, and ensures success in the ever-evolving world of cloud. For more on selecting the right cloud skills provider for your business, check out our comprehensive post, How to Choose a Cloud Skills Training Provider.

Top cloud training providers in the market

When it comes to cloud training, there are numerous IT vendor training solutions available in the market. Each platform offers its own unique features and benefits, catering to different learning preferences and goals. To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of some of the top cloud training providers you should consider:

1. Amazon Web Services (AWS): AWS offers offers both digital and classroom training. Their free digital training allows you to learn online at your own pace. Digital subscriptions unlock exclusive access to training, learning games, labs, and practice exams. AWS’ training program covers everything from basic cloud concepts to advanced skills in cloud architecture and security.

2. Microsoft Azure: Microsoft Azure offers self-directed and instructor-led training courses. Their personalized learning paths are self-paced and role-based, and cover topics ranging from AI and machine learning, to data fundamentals and security.

3. Google Cloud Platform: Google Cloud Platform provides both online and in-person training options, course offerings include cloud architecture, DevOps, cloud infrastructure, and machine learning. Their training program offers three certification levels ranging from foundational to professional.

4. Oracle Cloud: With both free and paid options, Oracle University presents opportunities to learn through in-application guidance in the flow of work. Oracle Cloud provides learning paths in cloud infrastructure, cloud database migration, and more.

5. IBM Cloud: IBM Cloud’s courses require no prerequisites, and include topics such as DevSecOps and cloud architecture. If you are interested in IBM certification or specialty, you’ll want to look into their learning paths. These training offerings specifically designed to help you pass the certification and specialty exams.

6. Cloud Academy: Cloud Academy offers practical cloud training across key cloud service providers (AWS, GCP, Azure, Oracle, Alibaba), DevOps, Security, and Programming. We offer over 1,000 labs and 40,000+ hours of content covering topics like containers, big data/AI, DevOps, machine learning, security, and more. 

7. VMware: VMware offers training courses focused on their virtualization and cloud infrastructure solutions. Their training program cover cloud management, virtual networking, and data center automation.

This just a sampling of the top cloud training providers in the market. Remember that each platform offers its own unique curriculum, teaching methodology, and pricing model. Be sure to carefully evaluate each option to find the one that best suits your specific needs and goals in cloud education.

To learn more about Cloud Academy and how we can assist you and your team along your journey to the cloud, contact one of our knowledgeable reps to request a demo.

The post How to Choose the Right Cloud Training Provider for your Business appeared first on Cloud Academy.