IBM is using a four-tiered approach to train its new managers. In the first tier, groups of 24 participants begin taking courses at the same time over the company intranet. These courses focus on what it takes to become an IBM manager. The second tier uses interactive learning modules with more than a dozen simulations. The simulations give learners an opportunity to work through business conduct problems, deal with compensation and benefits issues, and help employees build skills.
Further simulations cover topics such as multicultural issues and employee retention.
In addition to going through the simulations, participants receive coaching from second-line IBM managers. As learners move into the third tier of the training, collaboration becomes the focus of their learning. Participants use Lotus Team Room and Lotus Learning Space to solve problems as a group. At any given time, hundreds of small groups will be learning simultaneously. After six months of e-learning, everyone in a particular management class gets together for a week of classroom activities.