Small businesses have come a long way in terms of onboarding, training, and managing company knowledge over the past 70 years. With the emergence of new technologies and advancements, businesses have gained efficiencies and faced hidden costs along the way. In this article, we will compare the changes in how small businesses onboard, train, and manage company knowledge from 1953, 1973, 1993, and 2023.

1953: The Era of Paper-Based Documentation

In 1953, small businesses relied heavily on paper-based documentation to onboard, train, and manage their company knowledge. This meant that new employees were given a stack of papers to read and memorize, while existing employees had to rely on memory to recall critical information.

The process was inefficient and time-consuming, as it required a lot of physical space to store and manage paper documents. Moreover, businesses had to spend a considerable amount of time and resources on training and managing their workforce, resulting in high hidden costs.

1973: The Emergence of Audio-Visual Aids

In 1973, small businesses started using audio-visual aids to onboard, train, and manage their company knowledge. This meant that new employees were given films and slideshows to watch, while existing employees were trained using interactive sessions.

The use of audio-visual aids allowed small businesses to gain efficiency in their training process, as it enabled employees to learn faster and retain more information. However, the technology was still in its early stages, and businesses had to bear the cost of producing and maintaining audio-visual materials.

1993: The Evolution of Computer-Based Training

In 1993, small businesses started using computer-based training to onboard, train, and manage their company knowledge. This meant that new employees were given interactive computer programs to learn from, while existing employees could access information on their computers.

The use of computer-based training was a game-changer for small businesses, as it allowed for greater flexibility and scalability in their training programs. It enabled businesses to track employee progress, identify knowledge gaps, and personalize training based on individual needs. However, the cost of implementing and maintaining computer-based training programs could be high, and small businesses had to invest in IT infrastructure and software.

2023: The Age of AI and Machine Learning

In 2023, small businesses have embraced AI and machine learning to onboard, train, and manage their company knowledge. This means that new employees are given access to online training courses, virtual simulations, and chatbots to learn from, while existing employees can access a knowledge base that is continuously updated with the latest information.

The use of AI and machine learning has enabled small businesses to gain significant efficiencies in their training and management processes. It allows for personalized learning, automated tracking of employee progress, and real-time analytics to identify knowledge gaps and adjust training accordingly. However, the implementation of AI and machine learning can be costly, and businesses need to invest in IT infrastructure, software, and talent.