Lee Klepinger, vice president of Wall Data Inc., a Kirkland, Wash.-based software developer, says he has no plans to move into the soft skills yet. For now, Wall Data will stick to using the web to train sales staff and independent resellers in a new line of products that provide computer data over networks. When a business unit brings in web-based training, HR usually isn t far behind. At Wall Data, Pamela Pride, the HR vice president, is evaluating the potential for employee orientation and other training. The audience isn t ready.
Managers have a hard time with it, especially in the area of leadership development.
Walus says the HR department at Cisco will do some pilot testing at some point. One reason HR people may fear web-based training is the perception that it will put trainers out of business. Not the pioneers, however. Days Inn s Jungklaus is ecstatic that the web will allow her to deploy 11 trainers, including herself, more effectively. He urges HR professionals to partner with information technology staffs.