Having appropriate training materials and test data can make it easier for users to understand new concepts.
- Know how many people you're training. Use this information to ensure you have enough test information to work through different usage scenarios.
- When training users on a test system, ensure the test system accurately represents how the production system will work.
- If users work in certain queues, train users only on queues relevant to the user. For example, if users will work in specific Workflow queues, be sure to use only the queues users will work in.
- Use as much real information as possible. If time allows, use real charts that have been scrubbed of sensitive patient information. It may help to have an HIM director create a template chart that accurately represents the charts users will work on. Using “dummy” data may confuse users and reduce your credibility.
- Design training materials suitable for each type of user. For example, physicians are short on time, and they like to get their jobs done as quickly as possible. Quick reference guides may be a good choice for physicians, because they provide simple step-by-step instructions for common tasks. Training videos also work well for several types of users, as long as the information in the video is relevant to the user.