USoft has been live with their USoft Academy for a few months now. Time to look back on this collaboration, a real co-creation with many learning moments.
USoft, an established name in software automation for over thirty years, was facing a strategic shift. For years, classroom training had been the go-to method for training customers and partners, but the company wanted to grow. A scalable solution was essential to support the transition to a fully product-centric company.
The choice for Collow
Choosing a digital academy was a logical step. But as CEO Hans Canisius describes it: “Digitizing course material not only means new technology, but also a new way of thinking.” And that’s where Collow comes in.
For USoft, flexibility was an important factor in choosing a partner. Large parties and system integrators were considered, but Collow's pragmatic approach was a better fit. Hans: "With a party like Collow, you are closer to each other." That makes the collaboration complementary and efficient.
In addition, USoft saw in Collow a partner who not only provides technology, but also thinks along about the process and advises. That was crucial for USoft, because the organization was taking its first step into the world of online learning. They were not only looking for a platform, but a partner who would make the journey with them.
Both parties entered new territory during this collaboration; USoft converted their training courses to an online environment, and Collow supported the implementation of a fully customized curriculum for the first time. As Rob van Haarst, senior consultant at USoft, puts it: “It took a while before we knew how to best combine our knowledge and that of Collow.” A major challenge was setting up an effective production line for the course content. Developing a template and streamlining processes took more time than expected. Nevertheless, this was seen as a valuable learning process, in which open communication and mutual flexibility were key.
Scalability
The biggest benefit of this project is scalability. Where USoft previously trained small groups in a classroom setting, the digital academy offers space for much larger numbers of participants. This is crucial for a growing international clientele. Rob: “The academy enables us to transfer knowledge consistently and efficiently, regardless of the location of our clients.” In addition, USoft has gained valuable insights into how they can improve their own course development. The collaboration with Collow has not only helped them launch a platform, but also be better prepared for future steps.
During this collaboration, USoft was not the only party that made great progress; as a partner, we learn at least as much from our customers as they do from us. The collaboration with USoft has given us important insights. For example, we have learned that blueprints are worth their weight in gold and that developing a clear structure is essential. Finally, proactive communication and flexibility are key in a project whose form is not fixed in advance.
Looking ahead
The academy is live, but the story continues. Hans sees Collow as a partner that supports USoft with continuous technological improvements, while the substantive responsibility lies with USoft. “We expect Collow to keep us sharp with new insights and developments,” says Hans.
Want to learn more about how we help organizations embrace digital education? Feel free to contact us. We’d love to tell you how we can take your training program to the next level together.
