Learn why it’s important to stay ahead of the latest technological trends and how to do it as easily as possible.
Technology is advancing at a faster rate than ever before. Keeping up with this never-ending wave of innovation may seem daunting, but as an eLearning professional, it’s essential. Harvard Business Review made it pretty clear [1]: “Ignoring trends can give rivals the opportunity to transform the industry”. Forbes echoed this sentiment by saying that “if you don’t keep up with technology – and stay one step ahead of the game” you risk falling behind, becoming irrelevant, and missing opportunities [2]. Thankfully, keeping up with the latest tech stories is easier than you might think, and will benefit you greatly in the short- and long-run. By reading leading online tech publications, watching content on YouTube, listening to podcasts, attending conferences, and becoming an early adopter, you’ll be up-to-date and in-the-know in no time.
It’s also important to try out new technology trends on your own. By becoming an “early adopter”, you’ll have an inside look at the behaviors and thought-patterns involved in upcoming technological innovations. Trying out new technology doesn’t have to be expensive either, many apps or software platforms offer free versions and trials. By trying out a new app, you can experiment with new ways to communicate, take notes, or perform tasks you have to do every day. You may even find new workflows that work better than what you’re doing right now! This habit is beneficial not only because you’re getting small tastes of new technology that may become a larger part of your work in the future, but also (and maybe more importantly)because you’re developing the ability to better learn how to use and navigate new programs and platforms. As a result, when you are inevitably asked to use a new system in your work, you won’t have to waste as much time learning the ins and outs of a new program.
The full text of this article is available here. Good luck!