In the previous blog , we divided the B2B body of knowledge into different domains and segments. This blog will provide a guideline about where to get trained on B2B technology.
There are four major sources of training in order acquire B2B Knowledge:
- Formal organizations
- Subject matter experts (SMEs)
- Forums
- Others
In this blog, each of these options will be reviewed in more detail
1. Formal Organizations
There are several companies which provide formal or informal knowledge transfer specific to B2B technology. The following tables display training options based on the body of knowledge discussed in the previous blog. By clicking on the proper title, training organizations and specific details like total number of hours, cost and difficulty (Beginner, Intermediate, Advance, etc.) will be displayed:
Figure 1: IBM Sterling B2B Integrator training options
*Format: CR = Classroom, ILO = Instructor Led Online
Figure 2: IBM Manage File Transfer training options
*Format: CR = Classroom, ILO = Instructor Led Online
These tables provide information about formal trainings specific to IBM Sterling tools. If there is a need for gaining knowledge on a broader scope of IBM Tools, the following link can help:
https://www.ibm.com/training/search?query=
2. Subject Matter Experts
The previous training options are within a rigid formal framework. In this section, we list business partner organizations which can provide a SME who can assist with a specific use case required in your organization.
This type of engagement is more flexible in time and scope, which allows you to focus on the specific problem or gap to be resolved. For example, your organization is exploring to migrate your current Sterling Integrator footprint to a containerized environment. It would be better to engage an SME to explain functionality, architecture, benefits and to assess efforts to complete the migration based on current needs and priorities of your organization.
This can be seen as an ad-hoc training; nonetheless it is very important to clearly establish goals, scope, deliverables, sequence of events and timeline.
The next table provides a few key business partner organizations that can be leveraged for this type of training engagements:
Figure 3: IBM business partners
Here is a link where you can look for more information on IBM business partners in the B2Bspace:
https://www.ibm.com/watson/supply-chain/partners/explorer/#/?search=edi
3. Forums
Another efficient way to acquire knowledge and learning on B2B technology is through forums and portals.
These types of sites can be used as an effective tool to clarify specific questions or decisions since these are based on collective intelligence and experience of their users.
The following table enlists a few options:
Figure 4: B2B open and brand forums
4. Other Sources
Finally, there are plenty of other online communities that can be valuable to learn about B2B technology. Although, these websites are not for specific technical questions, these portals can offer interesting information, or at least provide the opportunity to create an online community or portal.
Figure 5: Other Forums
Conclusion:
Each of these training options are not mutually exclusive. You can access the various options based on your current needs and experience, allowing you to grow your knowledge and expertise, providing benefits to your organization and external communities.
#SupplyChain#Featured-area-2-home#B2BIntegration#Featured-area-2