Transforming Learning and Knowledge Sharing with Soutron
The Soutron Library Management System is transforming how LaFrance manages, accesses and utilises its vast collection of knowledge and training resources, empowering employees across various business units.
Custom library portals makes sharing and discovery easy
The company’s decision to adopt Soutron was driven by the need for a more efficient and accessible platform to support its growing educational initiatives and internal knowledge base. Prior to implementing Soutron, LaFrance relied on a combination of Microsoft file shares and a learning management system (LMS) to manage its training materials. However, this approach proved to be inefficient and hindered the company’s ability to effectively share and discover information. Recognising the limitations of this traditional method, LaFrance embarked on a project to establish a centralised online library that could better serve its employees’ learning and development needs. “As we spoke with ILS vendors, Soutron really stood out in that they provided the support and flexibility we needed at a good price,” states Caroline Hayden, Learning Resources Librarian at LaFrance.
LaFrance serves a wide range of industries, including automotive, electronics, cosmetics, and home improvement. Soutron’s customisable library system enabled LaFrance to create tailored information portals that cater to the unique learning and knowledge management needs of individual business units, including Benmatt Industries, LaFrance’s automotive business unit.
Built-in PDF and Video viewing increases access to learning materials
The ease of access provided by Soutron has transformed how LaFrance employees interact with learning resources. By using features like the built-in PDF viewer and video embedding, employees can access materials directly within the library without navigating away from the platform.
“The PDF viewer is very helpful in Soutron, all I need to do is upload a PDF file and then my colleagues can read the file right in the library record. With the videos, I upload them onto Microsoft Stream and use the rich text field within Soutron to embed the video so that way people can watch the videos right from the Library record without having to go anywhere or having any kind of access issues,” states Caroline. “It’s really made access to learning very, very nice.”
Built-in Thesaurus supports custom metadata fields
Soutron’s advanced search features, including custom fields and a built-in thesaurus, further streamline how employees find relevant information. LaFrance has created specialised search tools, including record ID fields and saved searches, to help LaFrance colleagues quickly locate specific materials.
Additional Benefits of Custom Library Portals for LaFrance Learning:
- Enhanced Knowledge Accessibility: Soutron’s user-friendly interface and powerful search functionality make it easy for employees to locate relevant information, including training materials, reference documents, and case studies.
- Improved Collaboration: The system facilitates collaboration among teams by providing a centralised platform for sharing knowledge and best practices.
- Streamlined Workflow: Soutron’s customisable features allow LaFrance to tailor the library to its unique needs, streamlining workflows and improving efficiency.
- Increased Innovation: By fostering a culture of knowledge sharing, Soutron empowers employees to access the information they need to drive innovation and problem-solving.
“It is exciting to see how much of a game-change Soutron has been for LaFrance,” states Tony Saadat, President & CEO of Soutron Global. “It’s wonderful to see how they have taken advantage of Soutron’s flexibility to develop dedicated portals with subject guides and saved searches tailored to individual business units, making essential resources like environmental specifications, testing guidelines, marketing materials, and videos easily accessible.”
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