MY CIPP
Staying compliant and the benefits of quick learning
Fiona Smith MCIPPdip, IPP Education payroll training manager, highlights how just-in-time learning (JITL) can be instrumental in supporting payroll compliance
I n the ever-evolving landscape of payroll, staying compliant involves an increasingly broad set of knowledge and skills. This article explores the importance of compliance in payroll and how JITL can be a game-changer for payroll professionals. The importance of compliance Compliance in payroll is non-negotiable. It involves adhering to various laws, regulations, case law and best practice. Companies that are non-compliant risk fines, reputational damage and costly employment tribunal claims. However, to achieve the required compliance, payroll professionals need expertise in an increasingly broad range of areas, including tax law, employment law, pensions regulations, data protection and governance. This breadth of knowledge can be overwhelming, especially for those new to the industry, and yet the skills and knowledge of the person operating the payroll systems is often the only thing standing between an organisation and widespread non-compliance. So how can payroll professionals ensure they gain the required knowledge to be confident in the compliance of their payrolls without risking information overload? The answer may lie in the latest trend in learning and development – JITL. What is JITL? JITL helps learners to avoid information overload, access knowledge when they need it and put what they’re learning into practice immediately. The principle is that information is delivered when and where it is needed, at the point of friction where individuals are likely to make mistakes. Rather than setting aside whole days dedicated to training, learners can identify an issue they have and then access
learning on that topic just in time to put the knowledge into practice.
they can quickly find a microlearning module or a how-to guide that addresses that specific issue. This immediate access to relevant information helps in solving problems in real time, reducing the risk of errors and ensuring compliance. JITL is also flexible. Payroll professionals can learn at their own pace and fit learning into their own schedule. This is particularly beneficial in a field where deadlines are critical and the workload can be unpredictable. By integrating JITL into their routine, payroll professionals can continuously update their knowledge without the need for lengthy training sessions. Studies have shown that learning in smaller, more focused increments can enhance retention. When payroll professionals learn something new and apply it immediately, they are more likely to remember it. This practical application reinforces the learning and makes it more relevant to their daily tasks. How can we implement JITL? To effectively implement JITL in your payroll, consider utilising online platforms, mobile apps, and e-learning tools. These technologies make it easy to access and update learning materials. You could also begin by curating a list of relevant resources and content. The CIPP has made this easy with our Online Resources for Payroll Professionals page (see https://ow.ly/N0pT50TyZ5t), plus our range of eLearning courses available to access quickly when needed. Ultimately, implementing JITL effectively involves fostering a culture of continuous learning within the organisation. By embracing JITL, you can ensure that your payroll team is always equipped with the latest knowledge and skills, which will lead to better compliance and performance. n
JITL can take any form that works for the individual or organisation, from online courses and webinars to microlearning modules, articles, how-to guides and more. The main principle is that it is targeted, bitesize learning that can be accessed when the learner needs it. This supports the learning cycle and allows for greater retention of information. Why is JITL important in payroll? Formal training and education in payroll compliance are, of course, needed to ensure that the fullness of a topic can be covered. However, this type of learning can be time-consuming and by its nature requires dedicated time to be set aside, usually later. In the busy world of payroll this is not always possible, and an answer is needed here and now. This is where JITL shines. JITL allows payroll professionals to access specific information exactly when they need it. For instance, if a team member encounters a unique tax situation, “The skills and knowledge of the person operating the payroll systems is often the only thing standing between an organisation and widespread non-compliance”
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| Professional in Payroll, Pensions and Reward |
Issue 105 | November 2024
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