Online Training and Digital Adoption with Susan Brattberg

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In this episode of the Digital Construction Podcast, Susan Brattberg, Co-founder and Chief Customer Officer of Global e-Training, discussed the role of virtual training in the construction industry and its impact on technology adoption. She shared her journey, noting that Global e-Training began 16 and a half years ago, initially offering a single AutoCAD course. Today, the company provides over 450 courses and has evolved into a technology partner helping architecture, engineering and construction companies drive technology adoption. Susan highlighted a significant shift in the acceptance of online learning—especially post-pandemic—with senior leadership now recognizing training as essential for both technology adoption and talent retention. She emphasized the importance of continuous learning in a rapidly evolving industry. Susan addressed common misconceptions about online training, such as a lack of time or budget, arguing that the cost of not training outweighs the investment. She stressed the importance of balancing quick answers with foundational learning. Tools like smart assessments help create custom learning paths and competency-focused training. Tailoring content to be company- and project-specific enhances relevance and knowledge retention. She also differentiated training approaches for new hires versus experienced workers, recommending assessments for new employees to identify skill gaps. On the topic of synchronous vs. asynchronous learning, Susan advocated for a hybrid model—using on-demand, asynchronous training for prerequisites and live, synchronous sessions for interactive discussions and real-world application. To maximize engagement and retention, she emphasized the value of interactive learning methodologies that cater to various learning styles. Susan said that a training plan is a crucial "insurance policy" for successful technology adoption—yet it’s often missing from BIM Execution Plans. She also addressed the challenge of training diverse generations, noting that their templates are designed to support all learners—from basic knowledge to advanced levels. Measuring the return on investment (ROI) in training, Susan pointed to metrics like: - Project efficiency - Technology adoption rates - Staff retention - Mitigation of liability through documented training Global e-Training is also embracing AI, incorporating it into course development with an AI-powered course creation tool to accelerate the creation and customization of training content.

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