A client in the higher education market was implementing a new Internet-based software system in its financial and human resource functions. The institution had to train more than 200 people with varied backgrounds and job responsibilities. The client needed professional instructors to train an audience with disparate computer skill levels. Much of the audience feared the change because the existing financial and human resource systems and processes had been in place for over 20 years. In addition, many of the target users were concerned about processing information electronically, instead of manually.

Gillespie Associates provided two instructors to deliver the training in a series of 1.5-day classes. These professionals had previous experience with the software and had delivered systems training in large and small classroom settings.

Department deans, managers, and administrators (end users)

• Delivered training content (developed by Gillespie Associates) in a series of 1.5-day training programs
• Set up one-on-one training labs for individuals who needed refresher training or special coaching
• Worked with the institution's database administrators to ensure the training database met the needs of the target audience
• Adjusted classroom training content based on participant feedback and subject matter experts' input

The individuals who attended the training praised our instructors for their knowledge, enthusiasm, preparation, and sense of humor. The course evaluations revealed that many individuals would like these instructors to return for refresher training in the future. Here's a sample of the comments received:

The instructors are excellent. I appreciate their patience and understanding. These same instructors should do a refresher course!

-- Student evaluation from training program