How to Train Users on AI When They Lack Basic IT Skills?
Asked by
CuriousCat989
I recently approached my boss with concerns about how little IT knowledge our users have. For example, I had to show a production manager how to copy and paste, and some people didn't even know how to format fonts in Word or add signatures in Adobe. My boss expressed interest in having me train them on AI and copilot tools, but I feel overwhelmed since some users can't even perform basic searches on Google. I'm the only IT person for about 150 employees, and training them on basic PC skills doesn't really seem to be my role. I'd love to hear how others are handling IT training.
Answers
Depending on your job title and role, this might also be outside your responsibility. Teaching basic skills shouldn't fall solely on you. If management wants this training, they need to understand that it requires dedicated resources. You should be realistic about what you can handle.
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Don't forget that there are many online resources like KnowBe4 and Microsoft’s learning modules. We started using them, and users began asking copilot for help instead of coming to the service desk. It’s a shift, but it helps them become more self-sufficient over time.
ITSupportHero: I tried using Microsoft 365 Learning Pathways, but no one really engaged with it.
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A great approach I've used is partnering with a local college for basic training sessions. They offered classes on essential skills like Word and Excel which we tailored to our needs. Having an instructor come in once a month made a huge difference, and it really offloaded the training from my team. Plus, we got a good deal because of their outreach programs! It could be a model worth considering for your situation.
CuriousCat989: Thanks for sharing! That sounds like a manageable solution.
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Honestly, it's a tough spot. If people don’t want to learn, they won’t. Maybe it's time to discuss with management about a training investment, so they know there's an expectation for users to improve their skills. You’re not just expected to do more with less; they should support the necessary training.
CuriousCat989: That makes sense. If we can highlight the importance to management, it might encourage a change.
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Involving an external service like Brainstorm could relieve some of your pressure. Training users on basic skills is really an HR issue, not just IT's responsibility. It might be worth proposing that to your management as an alternative solution.
CuriousCat989: That's an interesting suggestion! Outsourcing might be the way to go.
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CuriousCat989: Totally agree! It’s definitely a lot to take on alone.