Training your distribution network: have you ever thought about it?
For many years, MOS Chorus digital learning solution has achieved a strong breakthrough among large companies and SMEs, particularly in the field of training distribution network and sales forces.
So, what makes the difference and what are the elements that attract companies wishing to train their distribution network?
The success of Digital Learning in the training of distribution networks
For the animation of the distribution network, online training, and more particularly the use of an LMS solution, have advantages such as the flexibility to train at the right time and on what is required. For companies and SMEs, it clearly meets the training needs of distribution networks and sales forces: one-off training on recently marketed products, arrival of new employees or distributors, training and quizzes on business issues, challenges between learners and rankings, speed of training following very tight time-to-market deadlines, etc.
Motivation and efficiency are boosted thanks to Digital Learning. Indeed, it also promotes interactions and allows information to be provided to learners more quickly, and even instantly if necessary. All resources are saved within the LMS platform, regardless of the type and duration of the chosen resource: podcasts, documents, presentations, etc. Consistency, quality and portability of training contents are real values when networks are global.
The “right profile” of a digital solution dedicated to training retail networks
The LMS platform must integrate with other applications used in the company (CRM, ERP, etc.) and facilitate multi-support in a heterogeneous environment. It is complemented by offline apps that provide a comfortable learning experience in the field.
In the context of Mobile Learning where employees on the move do not always have an internet connection, applications in offline mode offer a comfortable learning experience in the field, while guaranteeing data synchronisation with the LMS platform.
During international deployments, the possibility of managing the platform in multi-sites offers a decentralised administration of learners and training paths which, while benefiting from group training activities, leaves room for autonomy and local creativity. For example, training content can be made available in English by the central office for localisation in the countries (translation and adaptation). Conversely, the central office can retrieve local content to make it available to the community. An integrated content creation tool also saves time and money.
Mobile Learning: a central role
The LMS platform makes it possible to filter content according to the terminal. Some resources are not designed for a mobile experience and a mobile version is offered. The design of user portals (graphic customisation and services) conveys the image of the brand. Today, the interfaces are automatically adapted to the different types of media. Some platforms offer the possibility of filtering content according to the medium used. Indeed, some resources or training paths are not designed for a mobile experience (duration, format, etc.) and a mobile version is then offered (or not).
Training portals to assess the skills acquired by the sales force
The online training solution accurately gives indicators such as progress, quiz results, learner interactions with educational resources and/or training activities. Good practice is to cross-reference this information with the skills repository and validate it either automatically or by the manager. It should be noted that some platforms allow you to create any type of assessment – from satisfaction to knowledge.
For network animation, gamification is very popular with salespeople, and symbolises the acquisition of skills, through badges, credits or points, which represent the different successes of the learner and the rewards associated with them.
Success story of online training for distribution networks: the example of CANAL+ INTERNATIONAL
For the animation and training of its international partners’ network, CANAL+ INTERNATIONAL has chosen a digital learning solution adapted to its specific needs.
As a reminder, the CANAL+ group is established in more than 40 countries via its subsidiary CANAL+ INTERNATIONAL, which publishes around fifty channels, covering broad themes intended and adapted to each of its regions.
In this rich multicultural and multilingual context, and to respond to the ever more demanding customers, it is essential to train and support the development of skills in international distribution networks.
For this, CANAL+ INTERNATIONAL has chosen a multilingual and customisable platform according to the geographical areas of the learners. The training paths use various methods and are mixed with face-to-face training. The experience is gamified through badges, points, rankings or even challenges between learners.
And it is a great success because after 1 year of launch:
- 75% of registered users have logged in at least once
- The average content rating is 4.54/5
Offer training experiences rather than training paths
31% of learners say more training would increase their engagement and loyalty.
And this is all the more important when it comes to training the distribution networks. Indeed, distributors who are familiar with your corporate culture, your services/products and are trained to sell them well will be more comfortable to talk about it and increase the overall performance of your brand. Consider offering them unique, personalised and engaging training experiences to build long-term loyalty.