GIANT EAGLE EXPANDS USE OF CBT SYSTEMS

PATRICK SCIACCA

PITTSBURGH -- On the heels of a successful launch into computer-based training for its cashiers, Giant Eagle here is expanding its roster of interactive training programs.

Giant Eagle is moving forward with CBT in some stores to train employees in areas such as produce, deli, frozen and bakery, according to John Giedl, director of training and development at Giant Eagle. He declined to provide a time frame when the new modules will be available chainwide.

In addition, the retailer is considering deploying an interactive management development program in the near future, Giedl added. When complete, Giant Eagle's CBT library will contain about 10 programs.

About six months ago Giant Eagle began using two CBT modules -- a cashier program and an Occupational Safety and Health Administration guideline training course, Giedl said.

Currently 145 stores are using the CBT system for cashier and OSHA training. Riser Foods, Bedford Heights, Ohio, a chain recently acquired by Giant Eagle, will make CBT modules available to its employees during the first quarter of 1999, according to Giedl.

The retailer is seeing an eight to 12-hour reduction in cashier training time through its CBT program, however "actual monetary savings have not been calculated," he said.

"CBT wasn't a dollars and cents decision," Giedl said, noting that what Giant Eagle wants is a well-trained work force. At some point, "100% of Giant Eagle employees will train through CBT in one way or another," he added.

Giedl believes CBT is the future of employee training for several reasons. "It's self-paced," he said, adding that in group situations, individuals who may not learn as quickly may be afraid to ask questions. In addition, CBT allows for remediation within a program.

Another benefit of CBT is that it provides documentation of the employee's training, which can be important for fulfilling government requirements or meeting insurance company mandates.

However, when new technology comes to the forefront there are also new challenges to meet.

According to Giedl, the corporate culture has to adapt to the new technology and "you have to change your attitude about how you've trained [in the past]."

The new CBT systems were designed by Payback Training Systems of Cedar Knolls, New Jersey.