Maximizing a Hybrid Training Model:
A Viega Case Study

The Challenge 

Before 2022, Viega’s training was primarily instructor-led and in person. While effective, this model posed limitations: geographic constraints, as well as time and cost pressures. 

The Solution 

Viega launched online training with BlueVolt, creating a flexible, hybrid training model. This complemented in-person training rather than replacing it, allowing for more efficient and effective use of time and resources.

The Story 

Viega is a family-owned plumbing and HVAC manufacturer, based in Germany with locations around the globe. They’ve been around for over 125 years.

  According to Troy Locke, Instructional Design Manager for Viega North America, training for union training centers and distributors used to be exclusively in person. While this was effective for hands-on demonstrations, there was a need to scale.

In 2022, Viega officially launched their University through BlueVolt, which allows them to offer prerequisite and supplemental courses online.

Key benefits include: 

• Time Savings: Online prerequisites reduce classroom time, enabling customers to fit training into existing agendas without extending schedules.
  
  
• Cost Savings: Minimizing schedule disruptions and travel reduces expenses. 

• Engagement: Narration, gamification, and knowledge checkpoints ensure online learners are engaged and well-prepared for hands-on sessions. 

• Expanded Reach: Viega is able to share with partners who are unable to make in-person training. 

Viega also leverages BlueVolt’s Groups feature to deliver tailored learning experiences, granting learners access to role-specific courses and training paths within a single University. This approach streamlines administration and enhances engagement. 

Impact 

Viega has seen steady growth in enrollments and engagement on the platform, with union partners and distributors giving strong positive feedback.

“They’re able to be more efficient, productive, and mindful of that time and still implement quality training,” Locke said. “They love the approach because it gives them flexibility.”

New distributors have become top users of the platform, demonstrating its role in strengthening partnerships and driving sales growth. 

“We’ve seen constant growth on the BlueVolt platform, which is fantastic,” Locke said. 

Conclusion 

By adopting BlueVolt, Viega transformed its training strategy from a traditional in-person model to a dynamic hybrid approach, improving efficiency, reducing costs, and strengthening customer relationships.

“We see the value with BlueVolt and our customers and how we want to grow our utilization,” Locke said. “Our customers like the content, they like the user interface, they like how it all works and it’s easy… It’s been a good relationship.”