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Workflow learning for employee support
Support performance in real time with workflow learning.
Workflow learning delivers support at the moment of need through short tools, quick reminders, or targeted microlearning that helps learners act immediately, not just understand concepts.
Workflow learning delivers support at the moment of need through short tools, quick reminders or targeted microlearning that helps learners act immediately, not just understand concepts.
When is workflow learning suitable?
Workflow learning works best when employees need to recall steps, make routine decisions or complete tasks that occur infrequently. It can also reinforce earlier training by helping learners apply knowledge in practice.
However, it should not replace formal learning where people need to develop complex skills, practise judgement, explore consequences or demonstrate competence before performing a task independently. In these cases, structured training can build the required foundation, while workflow resources provide ongoing support afterwards.
Our top tips
Provide job-embedded resources
Create short guides, checklists and micro-videos learners can access while performing a task. Focus each resource on a specific action, decision or common point of difficulty. Make sure the information is easy to scan so learners can find what they need without interrupting their work for long.
Use push notifications or reminders through an LMS or intranet
Send timely prompts through a Learning Management System (LMS), intranet or workplace platform. Nudges can reinforce key steps, prompt follow-up actions and help learners apply knowledge after formal training. They are most effective when they are relevant, well timed and linked to an action the learner needs to complete.
Integrate learning into digital workflows
Embed short learning moments into the systems and tools employees already use. This reduces disruption and makes support easier to find at the point of need. Examples include help text, process prompts, short demonstrations or links to guidance within a digital system.
Design for mobile
Make resources easy to access and use on smaller screens. Mobile-friendly content is particularly valuable for frontline, field-based or travelling employees. Use short sections, clear headings and simple navigation so learners can retrieve information quickly in different working environments.
Use repetition and spacing
Provide follow-up activities or reminders over time rather than relying on a single learning event. Repeated retrieval helps strengthen recall and encourages ongoing application. Spaced prompts can also direct learners back to key information before knowledge is forgotten or a task is repeated.
Keep everything short and purposeful
Include only the information learners need to complete the immediate task. Use clear headings, direct instructions and formats that can be scanned quickly. Each resource should have a clear purpose and avoid background information that does not support the learner’s next action.
Workflow learning focuses on application, not just awareness. The goal is to support performance at the exact moment learners need help.
Bersin, J. (2018, June 3). A new paradigm for corporate training: Learning in the flow of work. Josh Bersin.
Brown, P. C., Roediger, H. L., III, & McDaniel, M. A. (2014). Make it stick: The science of successful learning. Harvard University Press. https://doi.org/10.4159/9780674419377
Clark, R. C., & Mayer, R. E. (2011). E-learning and the science of instruction: Proven guidelines for consumers and designers of multimedia learning (3rd ed.). Pfeiffer.
