Production managers should consider the use of simulations and off-line classroom training. Simulation allows an employee to learn what it is like on the line without the risk of stopping the line because of an error made by an untrained employee. In off-line simulations, the trainer can stop the employee and discuss the employee's progress at anytime. Airlines offer the best example of simulation training. The risk of failure caused by an untrained pilot is unacceptable to the airline.
Pilots receive training in flight simulators where trainers create various conditions.
An advantage of the simulator is that the trainer can create situations for the pilot that the pilot may not encounter for several years in real flight conditions. Imagine entering an airplane for a cross-country flight in December. You heard on the weather report while waiting for the flight that severe winter storms rage across the country. I know my comfort level would drop dramatically. Major grocery chains train cashiers off-line in the beginning to explain the operations of the cash register and store operations policies.