What is Asynchronous Learning for Customers?

As a decision maker for a B2B SaaS business, you know how important it is to provide good training to your customers. But the traditional ways of training may not work well as customers tend to have different learning preferences and schedules.

That's where asynchronous learning comes in. It is becoming popular for SaaS businesses to train their customers because it's flexible and convenient.

What is Asynchronous Learning?

Asynchronous learning, aka async learning, means you can learn at your own pace without needing to talk to a teacher. It's different from synchronous learning, where you and your peers have to be online or in the same place at the same time for classes with a teacher.

So, how does asynchronous learning work?

It usually involves pre-recorded lecture videos, online resources like articles and quizzes, and discussion forums where learners can interact with each other and ask questions.

The cool thing is that learners can access all of this material whenever they want, from wherever they are. They don't need to be online at the same time as a trainer or other learners.

Difference Between Synchronous and Asynchronous Learning

Synchronous learning is where the customer and the instructor engage in real-time, online or offline.

In the modern context, this means that the instructor and the customer are online at the same time, and they communicate using tools for video, chat, or even phone.

Here are the key differences between sync and async learning:

Synchronous Online Learning

• Real-time learning
• Instructor and customer interact live
• Immediate feedback
• Examples: live webinars, online classes with a live instructor, and coaching sessions

Asynchronous Online Learning

• Self-paced learning
• Customer accesses course materials on their own time
• Instructor and customer don't need to be online at the same time
• Provides flexibility for the customer's schedule
• Examples: pre-recorded videos, online courses, and e-books

Benefits of Asynchronous Learning

Asynchronous learning benefits are popular for the following reasons:

1. Flexibility

Learners can access asynchronous courses from anywhere, anytime. For example, a SaaS business with customers in different time zones can offer this learning approach so that their customers can learn with ease.

2. Convenience

As asynchronous learning doesn't require the customers to be available at any specific time, they can learn about your product at their convenience. They can easily adjust their learning around their work and personal schedules.

3. Scalability

Asynchronous learning can be scaled to reach a large number of learners at once. This is because the materials are pre-recorded and don't require real-time interaction.

For example, a SaaS business that wants to offer education to a large number of customers can use asynchronous courses to reach everyone, regardless of their location or schedule.

4. Cost Effective

Asynchronous learning can be a cost-efficient alternative to traditional in-person classes. It eliminates the need for travel and on-site instructors, resulting in low costs to operate.

The training material can be created and delivered online, making it more scalable and cost-effective for businesses of all sizes.

Asynchronous Online Learning Examples

Some SaaS businesses have already successfully implemented asynchronous learning. Here are some examples of asynchronous learning,

A. HubSpot

HubSpot offers online courses for marketers and salespeople. These courses are all self-paced and can be accessed at any time. This has enabled HubSpot to reach a larger audience and provide a more flexible learning environment for customers.

In fact, businesses have started hiring people who are HubSpot certified. This has improved their brand authority and market presence.

B. Salesforce

Salesforce offers Trailhead, an online learning platform that is entirely asynchronous. Thus, learners can access courses and training whenever they want.

This has helped Salesforce scale its training courses and reach more customers than ever before. Consequently, there are a plethora of Salesforce-certified professionals, making it easier for Salesforce customers to utilize the platform.

Challenges of Asynchronous Learning

Here are some common challenges of async learning:

• Lack of Interaction: Async learning can make customers feel lonely and disconnected. They are usually learning by themselves without any interaction with teachers or peers. This can make it harder for them to stay engaged and focused.
• Time Management: It requires customers to be responsible for managing their own time and scheduling their learning around their other chores. This can be tough for people with hectic schedules.
• Technical Issues: It relies heavily on technology. Hence, technical problems like slow internet or software glitches can cause frustration and disrupt the learning process.
• Self-Discipline: It requires customers to be self-motivated without the guidance of a teacher. This can be tough for those who need more motivation and support to stay on track.
• Feedback and Support: It can make it hard for customers to get instant feedback and help when needed. This can make it tough for them to measure their progress and succeed in the course.

Best Practices for Implementing Asynchronous Learning

Follow these best practices to ensure asynchronous learning is effective.

• Set Clear Learning Goals: Before creating your training program, decide what you want your customers to know or be able to do. This way, you can keep your strategy focused on their needs.
• Make Engaging and Interactive Content: Asynchronous learning works better when learners are curious and involved. You can use videos, quizzes, and games to create educational content. This will keep your customers interested and help them remember things.
• Use a Learning Management System (LMS): An LMS can help you manage your asynchronous learning program better. LMSs can track how customers are doing, provide feedback, and let you update your content easily.
• Give Feedback and Support: Learners need feedback to get better. Hence, you should give feedback on how they are doing and offer ways for them to assess themselves. You can also offer support through chatbots, online discussion boards, or one-on-one coaching sessions.

Asynchronous learning is a great way for customers to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. You can create effective asynchronous online learning programs by following the best practices stated above.

Trainn is a customer education platform you can use. Its customer education software lets you offer the best asynchronous online learning experience to your customers. Sign up today!