Training challenges in the IT sector

The pandemic has accelerated many transformation processes at Rumos, consequently resulting in the need to rethink business models, change practices, digitize processes, and develop skills. 

In this transformative context, Jorge Lopes, Head of Rumos Training, states that “organizations looked for training in Cloud technologies and platforms, Data & Analytics, Cybersecurity, DevOps practices and tools, and agile methodologies. Whereas in the case of private individuals, we see a higher demand for training solutions that help transition to a career in IT, especially in areas such as Programming, Cybersecurity & Privacy, and Data & Analytics, in line with companies’ high demand for skilled and certified professionals in the aforementioned areas; a fact that also reveals that this is certainly a very safe path when choosing a professional career”. 

Rumos has been updating its offer for a long time as a result of the constant changes in the IT world. In recent years, the company has intensified this process, and as Jorge Lopes explains, “to keep up with the evolution of the market in which it operates and to respond to the transformation needs of companies. Our value proposition is very diverse and covers most of the training needs of the Portuguese market, positioning Rumos as a partner and facilitator of organizational transformation". Moreover, Rumos also stands out for its ability to customize skills development projects by adapting training courses to the target audience and using hybrid models, such as synchronous and asynchronous content. In fact, Rumos carries out a prior diagnosis and develops specific materials focused on training effectiveness and on the participants.

According to Jorge Lopes, the impact of the last two years of the pandemic has led to "the very widespread adoption of hybrid work models, which seek to promote autonomy and a greater balance between personal and professional life. In fact, Rumos already had a lot of experience with remote delivery methods, as these had been implemented a few years ago, but we took this opportunity to develop our hybrid models, combining asynchronous (e-learning) and synchronous (traditional) content, privileging practice and project development in moments with a trainer, and developing a new concept of a training room, our "Room 4.0", which through more technological means provides a more immersive and collaborative experience among all our students".

In 30 years of business, Rumos has brought its offer closer to the current reality by “establishing partnerships and gaining recognition from both Portuguese and international entities operating in the ICT sector, resulting in exclusive training partnerships in the Portuguese market. We currently have over 15 partnerships that allow us to offer the most up-to-date and relevant training courses in the IT sector”.

Challenges
Jorge Lopes claims that it is extremely challenging to “keep up with the rapid evolution of the IT market. In a world of constant change, staying up-to-date in terms of content and methodology is crucial in the IT training field”. 

To overcome these challenges and deliver a differentiating experience, Rumos presents a value proposition based on two essential pillars: one focused on contributing to the success of the organizations and individuals who attend Rumos’ training courses, and the other on fostering a culture of lifelong continuous learning. According to Jorge Lopes, "These goals are achieved thanks to an agile and competent team, but also thanks to our local and international partnerships, which provide our market with training and certification focused on the most relevant and up-to-date tools, methodologies and technologies by using training models that privilege experience and know-how".

Rumos has once again been recognized by receiving the 2022 Best HR Providers Award in the “Training, Coaching and Professional Development” category, an award promoted by the AGP, the Portuguese Association of People Management. Rumos achieved an average of 89.8 points, on a scale of 0 to 100, in the Best HR Providers Index. This is an above-average performance compared to the other nominated companies that also make up the Best HR Suppliers ranking.

Article published in the Special Edition “Formação” of Human Resources, no. 138, July 2022.