The TWI Job Instruction (TWI IP) method is a crucial part of managing training processes. It focuses on effectively documenting and transferring knowledge in a structured way. The Training Within Industry (TWI) program offers five methods. Among these, TWI IP stands out due to its emphasis on systematic training. Today, with growing competition in the labor market and increasing demands on employees, this method is gaining particular importance.
What is TWI Job Instruction?
TWI IP is a training method that organizes the knowledge transfer process. It enables employees to acquire new skills efficiently and quickly. Instructors create clear instructions that break tasks into main steps, key points, and reasons. Each of these elements plays an essential role. The main steps outline the stages of work. The key points help workers avoid mistakes. The reasons explain why each step is necessary.
How to Implement TWI Job Instruction in Practice?
The implementation of the TWI Job Instruction method involves preparing work instructions divided into main steps, key points, and reasons. Training follows a four-step approach, based on competency matrices. This structured process ensures clear and consistent knowledge transfer. Additionally, it allows employees to build the skills they need faster.
Why is TWI Job Instruction Important?
TWI Job Instruction is not only a learning tool but also an important element in building lasting knowledge within the company. By using this method, companies can standardize their training processes. As a result, onboarding costs are reduced, and fewer errors are made by inexperienced workers. Moreover, this method increases employee versatility, which means they can handle various tasks. Consequently, companies become more flexible in managing their workforce, which is critical in today’s ever-changing market conditions.
Factors Influencing the Decision to Implement TWI IP
There are many reasons why companies decide to implement TWI Job Instruction. These can be grouped into external and internal factors.
External Factors:
- Challenging labor market – The lack of skilled workers and growing competition are pushing companies to seek more effective training methods like TWI IP.
- Seasonality in production – Companies facing fluctuating product demand need to onboard new employees quickly. TWI IP helps train workers efficiently within a short time frame.
- Increasing customer demands – As client expectations rise, there is a growing need for more skilled employees. Implementing TWI IP addresses this by ensuring effective skill development.
Internal Factors:
- Lengthy onboarding process – TWI IP shortens the time needed to train new employees by providing clear, tested training guidelines.
- Lack of structured competency development – Many companies do not have a well-defined system for developing employee skills. TWI IP creates such a system, which enhances the overall effectiveness of training programs.
- Risk of knowledge loss – When experienced employees leave, they often take valuable knowledge with them. TWI IP ensures that this knowledge is documented and passed on to other employees. Thus, it reduces the risk of losing critical expertise and ensures continuity in processes.
Conclusion
TWI Job Instruction is a powerful tool that not only accelerates the training of new employees but also supports companies in developing long-term competencies. In today’s rapidly changing business environment, the ability to efficiently transfer knowledge is key. This is why implementing TWI IP helps companies stay competitive and better adapt to shifting market conditions.
He is a Senior Consultant of the TWI program and Lean Management at LeanTrix. He is also a leader in the startup project - etwi system. He was a member of a global team that implemented the TPM system for several automotive plants in Europe, Asia, South America and North America.
