Workflow training - any thoughts?

KSchroeder's picture

Hello Workflow-ers,
We're preparing to head down the road to goodness that is Workflow, and are looking at getting training before we implement (what a crazy thought huh?).  I was wondering if any of you had been through the Symantec Workflow training (either classroom, onsite, or even the web training) and if so, could you share your thoughts?  Did you attend WF6 or WF7 training?  Is it so easy that we don't even need training (I doubt it!)?

Thanks for your time.

billyccfs's picture

I did Workflow 6 training class

I did a Workflow 6 training class last year. It was a good starting point but, to be honest, the course material (5 days) didn't really scratch the surface of what what WF can do. Also. it completely neglected Process Manager.

I have found since working with Workflow that taking .NET and C# programming courses really helped me with component development.

Hopefully with 7, there will eventually be some kind of "bootcamp" course (12 hour days) so that you can really get knee deep in all that WF can do.

MBHarmon's picture

While I've not taken the

While I've not taken the training myself, we had a presentation at the Kansas City User Group and they swore up and down that the best thing they did was have on site training. 

I've tried doing it myself and I'm having limited success.  I'll probably have to get training as well.

- Matt

Rob Moore's picture

Take the Training....

The basic training is rather simplistic, but it does teach the basic "how to's" of the product.

After that, keep a lookout for an "advanved" class taught by Shawn Turnbow. He usually holds them at a user site, they are free, and they are a VERY advanced class. This class is more geared towards using Workflow as and application development environment - which is what it really is.

We use workflow for everything from AD monitoring to PKI/Certificate creation.

rob

KSchroeder's picture

Thanks for your comments so far

Everyone,
Thanks for your comments thus far, I really appreciate it.  I'm really excited about what we'll be able to do with WF.  Just eliminating the need for someone to sit around sending/processing email replies for various approvals, etc will be a big benefit right off the bat, and seemingly that's a fairly trivial task to accomplish.

Matt:  Maybe we can go in together and get some training setup in Columbia or somewhere else mid-Missouri-ish :-)  Or come out to STL and visit your remote office here and we'll have the training at our place!

Thanks,
Kyle
Symantec Trusted Advisor
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Jimbaland's picture

I highly recommend some type of training.

I attended a free 3 day training course put on by Shawn Turnbow and Jason Short in Norfolk VA a few months back. It was good to learn some best practices and some advanced features of WF. Also, for those who cannot attend training, want a head start, or want to reinforce what they have learned, go to www.workflowswat.com/ . Workflow SWAT has many how-to videos ranging from beginner to advanced along with sample projects for commonly used processes.This is an incredibly useful tool.

BillCat's picture

On site is the best way

Shawn Turnbow was out at our site for one-on-one training.  He also helped configure our first server way back in the Transparent Logic days.  His guidance was invaluable.  Prior to that I had only taken several webinars.  After Shawn's visit we were cranking out workflows like pros.  He was even amazed at the complexity of our first workflows!

GreatAmericanWF's picture

Our experience wtih

Our experience wtih traditional instructor-led or virtual classroom training that Symantec offers is lacking... greatly.  Our best bang for the buck was when we had a consultant from ITS make an on-site visit.  Huge jumpstart.

KSchroeder's picture

Sounds like we need to track down Shawn

Hmm well with several ringing endorsements for Shawn Turnbow, sounds like he is the man to know for WF.  Thanks Jimbaland and BillCat for your input and the link.

Thanks,
Kyle
Symantec Trusted Advisor
If your question has been resolved, please be sure to click "Mark as Solution"! Thank you.

sturnbow's picture

Training

Hi All,
  We're looking at doing a free Workflow training in Greenville, SC early December.  Please fill out a training request at http://www.workflowswat.com/workflow-training-request/ and I will contact you with details.

Regards,
Shawn Turnbow
Systems Engineering Specialist - Workflow
Symantec Corporation
 
Office:  864.335.8005
Cell:  864.275.7190