I wrote, a couple of weeks ago, about some of the misconceptions associated with technology that still linger with intent around the training industry, and one of the key points that many struggle to come to grips with is around cost. And, I think, perhaps, this is just as much our fault as the provider of the technology, as you the training provider.

When we market technology we always bang on about the cost savings, ‘you can streamline admin teams and save huge amounts’, is a firm favourite. However, much less is mentioned about the cost of setting up and getting going with new technology, and this really was pushed to the fore, for me anyway, when I read about Gap’s latest initiative in the hugely competitive retail market.

Sales at Gap have fallen year-on-year for the past six years, and while it would be easy for the Gap management team to heap blame onto the recession (which I’m sure they have done), clearly some changes need to be made – both in terms of saving cash and identifying some new revenue streams too. And, it would seem that technology is to play a starring role in Gap’s revival.

The Financial Times reported that Gap is to jump on-board the smartphone roller-coaster and market brand and product with videos to anyone who walks into the store, so long as they have the appropriate phone. Cutting edge technology is not always, it would seem, used by the wealthy companies with money to burn, it is also the solution (or hopefully the solution) for businesses that are out of ideas and are fed up of mediocre results doing things the same old way all the time.

This resonates in the training world. Why should training software that can literally revolutionise the way you operate and pull you (kicking and screaming, sometimes) into 2011, be the exclusive right of the financial elite? It’s not, and it never will be.

Gap has shown that a company on its knees can still be innovative and cutting edge with technology. How will your business stand out from the crowd?