Cisco keeps staff motivated through easy-access online training programme

Training is an annual must at Cisco Systems (HK), and even in lean times the budget stays for educational programmes.

'Training keeps our staff motivated,' says Frankie Sum, managing director of Cisco Systems, North Asia. 'We insist on a minimum amount of training per year. We have never cut our training budget, even in difficult times.'

Cisco is a market leader in Internet networking, and it is therefore no surprise that 80 per cent of all training is conducted online.

'E-learning is the most time-efficient, cost-effective way to provide training,' says Connie Lin, head of human resources, Cisco Systems, North Asia. 'We have the flexibility to do it any time, such as on weekends.'

Cisco's training and development site is on the company's vast intranet portal, which contains 1.7 million pages. The Education Management System displays e-learning programmes ranging from soft skills, such as presentation techniques, to technology-focused subjects.

Margaret Lee Mang-yi, a regional sales manager, says Cisco identifies the appropriate education that staff require to further their career.

She says the company culture, which is one of open communication and empowerment of all employees, is motivation to give one's best.