The optimization of ASML's Training Center regarding efficiency and effectiveness

Abstract

The objective of this project is to develop a suitable design proposal for the future context of ASML’s Training Center, substantiated by research and stakeholder input. Since training demand will increase also with the introduction of new systems, the company entails the creation of a product that will support this dynamic environment by offering the possibility to create a tailor made training journey, while keeping certain dependencies in mind. A combination of representative techniques, such as Hardware, Virtual Reality, Software and Theory will be used to create the most realistic training experience with a strong focus on hands-on capabilities. A supportive literature and user research has been conducted on training context, aiming at methods and psychology, future trends complemented by in-depth interviews conducted with other technology-focused companies to study their practices. Additionally, the user experience was investigated at the graduation company through a combination of interviews, observations and surveys. This extensive exploration phase has resulted in a wide diversity of possible future training focus points such as for example (1) improving effectiveness and practice opportunities of hands-on trainings targeting optimal knowledge retention and (2) increasing on-the-job performance support through mentor guidance and manager evaluation. Incorporating the input of the majority of engineers, as part of the User-Centered Design approach, it could be concluded that focusing on a planning tool, while optimizing the amount of effective hands-on modules, was the most promising direction. Product requirements have been gathered through interactive co-creation and brainstorm sessions with users and business stakeholders. Once the core features were determined, the prototyping phase was launched, consisting of two separate sections. First a UX design was created through wireframing and several conducted rounds of usability testing. Next an effective planning proposal was defined representing a possible training scenario. A balanced merging of these two sections characterizes the High-NA TC planning tool ‘MyTraining’, which enables micro-managing and adapting a training to the needs and preferences of trainees. It supports a flexible environment, where learning by doing is encouraged, and practice opportunities are facilitated. It entails three main functionalities; book training time slots according to own preferences and availability, self-direct the training journey while encountering the planning guidance and explore other training programs for personal development awareness. The tool can be perceived as valuable to the users, since it will boost their motivation through a sense of autonomy, mastery and purpose. Furthermore, their confidence level will be increased through practice opportunities and effective modular training slots. Business benefits for the company are improved field self-sufficiency of the trained engineers, which will impact the quality of service to the customers, and decreased training and preparation time which will free up additional capacity for other valuable business-related purposes.
However, in the current situation the company does not have enough modules to fulfill the growing need of hands-on practice opportunities. The key recommendation is that the company supply should be aligned with the hands-on training demand to support a practice stimulating environment. It can be concluded that this thesis provides a starting point for the company to explore their way of working in the future Training Center, where learning by doing is crucial to satisfy the engineer’s needs and to create optimal field self-sufficiency.