It is currently upgrading from the dos-based version of a Timberline estimating program, which it has run since 1981, to the Windows version. Ardledge adds that they allow her to eliminate individualized training for each user. He's a real stickler for keeping people trained. But there was less agreement on other software training catalysts. But more firms are seeing advantages in such benefits, particularly as a way to recognize good performance among essential technical staff who aren't in the top management track.
Training certainly goes a long way.
As training grows in complexity, importance and expense, firms are exploring new ways to recoup their investments. These include policies requiring employees to remain on board for a specified time after training is completed. However, such mandates have yet to become mainstream in construction, according to the survey. Respondents note that such policies are difficult to enforce. Heery International asks employees who participate in training programs to remain on board for at least 12 months, but it Director John Kelly says this is strictly a human resource policy, not a legal requirement.