Case Study 1:

Next-Generation Network Engineer Blended Learning Solution

The challenge

A leading international system integrator faced a severe networking skills shortage. At the same time this client saw an unprecedented opportunity in the burgeoning market for converged communications. Consequently, this client wanted to

  • Rapidly create a ‘next generation’ of networking engineer/consultant
  • Develop both business and technical skills in these individuals
  • Create and blend specific new skills for a new age of converged communications
  • Train many people in a very short timescale
  • Accurately assess the effectiveness and ROI of the training.

The solution

An integrated and cost-effective 8-week Network Skills ‘Academy’ which blended residential, team building and working, Virtual Classroom Learning (VCL), Self-Paced eLearning (SpeL) and live and remote mentoring. The programme covered

  • A common induction to the business
  • The mix of professional and consultancy skills demanded in new networking environments
  • Technical training tailored to meet this customer’s highly specific business requirements
  • Research and assessment of the fast-developing network integration market
  • A final project in which to practise and demonstrate acquired skills.

The results

A new breed of highly motivated and skilled individuals was quickly created, capable of driving major business growth for this client in a key strategic market. The tangible returns for individuals and the business included:

  • Enhanced business awareness and improved personal and team skills
  • Significant increases in engineer and consultant charge-out rates, made possible by new, in-demand skill sets
  • Industry and customer internal certification for all individuals
  • Average billing improvement: €700 per day
  • Training programme cost per student: €14,000
  • Full payback on training investment in 40 billable days.

 

Topics developed for this bespoke training solution

  • Company Induction, Background and Culture
  • Business Awareness
  • Professional Skills
  • Industry Research
  • Operating Systems
  • Network Fundamentals
  • Data Communications
  • TCP/IP
  • Telecommunications
  • Voice/Telephony
  • Broadband Technologies
  • Convergence
  • Policy and Directory Services
  • Wireless
  • Voice over IP (VOIP)
  • Security
  • CCNA Certification