The Digital Shift in on-the-job learning - and why it matters

In Australia’s blue-collar sectors, effective work instructions and standard operating procedures (SOPs) are critical to safety, productivity, and compliance. As Australia’s industrial workforce transitions demographically over the next 10 years, it’s essential for leaders to understand the expectations of different generations.


What stacks up for Baby Boomers and Gen X isn’t going to cut it for Gen Z:

• Baby Boomers (Born 1946-1963): While accustomed to paper-based instructions, many are now comfortable using digital tools. Offering a blend of digital work instructions with printable options ensures they stay engaged.
• Gen X (Born 1964-1981): Gen X workers value self-reliance and practicality. SOPs with easy-to-navigate formats and interactive guides (e.g., videos or checklists) make learning straightforward and efficient.
• Millennials (Born 1982-1999): Mobile-first and on-demand, Millennials prefer work instructions and SOPs that are accessible via smartphones and tablets, with multimedia elements like step-by-step videos or AR/VR-based simulations.
• Gen Z (Born 2000-2017): Tech-savvy and fast learners, Gen Z thrives on concise, visual, fun and interactive work instructions. Think video tutorials, quick-reference mobile apps, and real-time notifications on safety procedures or job steps.

Why the Digital Shift Matters
The numbers tell us that in 10 years up to 75% of the available labour pool in Australia will be comprised of Gen Y and Gen Z – values and expectations around job aids and learning will change significantly. Leaders and learning professionals need to think now how to best position their learning offering for this demographic shift. Word document based materials will not cut it for our future industrial workforce.


The benefits in making the Digital Shift now

• Accessibility: Workers can access updated SOPs anytime, anywhere, even in remote areas or on the job site, ensuring they have the latest information when needed.
• Engagement: Interactive elements like videos, step-by-step tutorials, and quizzes help reinforce learning and improve retention of critical procedures.
• Consistency & Compliance: Digital SOPs can be updated in real-time, ensuring that all employees are working from the most current safety guidelines and operational standards.
• Efficiency: Digital tools reduce the need for printing and distribution, saving costs while ensuring workers always have the information they need at their fingertips.

By taking a considered transition to a digital "on the job" training model industries can better meet the needs of the future workforce, improve safety outcomes, and enhance overall operational efficiency.

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