Blended learning in SAP projects

SAP training at SBB is divided into four main categories – finance & controlling, logistics, project system, and personnel. Training is initially carried out on a project-by-project basis when rolling out new applications, and then these rollout projects are used to develop regular standard training modules for new starts in the relevant units.

These standard training modules have a step-by-step structure. New starts are first given an overview of SAP, then basic training in the individual main categories, before completing the actual user training modules relevant to the areas where they are working. Finally, they undertake complementary training units such as modules on data evaluation or data export.

SBB has access to a training environment comprising a dedicated SAP training system that is identical to the real operational system and also has special training users. Exercises and examples are established in a master client, a copy of which is created for each individual course to ensure the same starting point is always available.

Users are given appropriate authorizations and then set to work on a copy of the operational system – referred to as a playground – where they can take their first steps without putting any sensitive data at risk or causing any damage to the operational system.

During major rollout projects, SBB quickly discovered the limitations to classic in-person training. Large numbers of participants (between one and two thousand) with different levels of prior knowledge and requirements were spread over the entire country and training had to be offered in French, German and Italian.

The costs of in-person training thus rapidly spiraled and time proved to be a problem, too. To help alleviate the situation, SBB turned to blended learning. From that point on, web-based training (WBT) has been used to teach the basics.

More in-depth knowledge and expertise is passed on in a range of modules that continue to be conducted in person. However, these courses now take less time, as a certain amount of the necessary know-how has already been delivered through WBT. What’s more, course documentation is also created and managed using the tts performance suite.

For example, trainees can continue to access up-to-date documentation any time after the courses, as well as additional training options incorporating simulation exercises. Special topics that only affect a small group of individuals and build on content from previous courses are covered in WBT to ensure cost efficiency. As these individuals are usually skilled experts, the relevant issues can be covered without additional explanations from a trainer.

Similar problems cropped up with standard training units as did with the introductory training units, although the problem in these cases was the low number of participants. Only ten to 30 people need to complete each course at different times. To ensure courses can be delivered on a reasonably cost-effective basis, however, there needs to be a minimum number of participants.

This therefore means courses can only be offered once or twice a year, meaning the employees concerned can’t be trained up in good time. Due to their excellent experience with blended learning during the rollout projects, SBB is currently in the process of switching these standard training courses over to this system, too.

A WBT module focusing on the basics for new starts has already been created with the tts performance suite and made available in three languages. Additional basic training units for the individual main categories are currently in development and will be published on a gradual basis. SBB continues to offer in-depth training as in-person courses. This means someone who needs immediate training can complete a WBT module and will then be ready to undertake in-person training.