Most big companies do organize additional trainings for their IT employees. But lately some are cutting back and that may be a big mistake in the long run.

Yes, coming from us, that may sound like something obvious to say. Let’s go beyond the obvious, though. The most often thing you hear about why your IT staff needs training is to improve their performance. But let’s look at the bigger picture.

There’s more a lot more to it than improved performance. The IT world is very different and traditional education is not enough. Also, most IT professionals don’t really think they know everything. Quite the opposite. They have a constant hunger for new skills. And there’s more. Here are five “big picture” reasons why continuous training is important.

1. The ever-changing demand. Most big platforms have at least one major update per year. And for apps, the big changes are even dozens per year. The shelf live of technology is so short, keeping the pace is a challenge. As platforms change, so to the requirements of customers and you need to be able to use the latest possibilities in order to answer the demand.
2. The constant tech advancements. It’s not only the demand that changes. Technology changes faster than ever. There are new features that require some additional knowledge in order to get the most out of them. And while seasoned pros may be able to figure that out by themselves, providing them with proper training will make the process much faster and more efficient.
3. Trainings boost motivation. It’s true. The majority of IT pros put big value in the possibility to improve their skills. In fact, they are willing and will change jobs for one where they can learn more. It’s a great way to retain IT talent, especially in the huge competition for skilled workers due to the big digital skills gap.
4. Speaking of competition, that’s another reason why trainings are a must. You can’t to be competitive, right? You want to be ahead of the pack. In order to do that, your employees have to be on the top of their game. Trainings help them achieve that.
5. Finally, there’s the tech replacement. More and more jobs can and will be automated. This leaves less jobs, which are more specific and require more skills. Now, you may think that’s not your problem, but each individual, but it will have a direct reflection on your company. And also, remember the motivation. It will do wonders for your employees to know the company cares for their future.