DAPS and the 70:20:10 model: learning in the workflow

Provide learning in the workflow

I recently had the opportunity to explore (in the form of a business demo) a digital adoption platform (DAP), and that gave me a new perspective on the way I think about learning about the workplace.

What is a DAP and why he drew my attention

A DAP is a layer of technology that integrates directly into the tools that employees use daily, by guiding them through real -time processes using walks, tool tips and smart boosts. As a person deeply involved in the integration of technology in learning and development (L&D), it was exciting. Instead of withdrawing learners from their work for a course or a module, the DAPs provide learning while they work, making it practical, immediate and highly contextual.

An example of what I observed

The recent demo of a digital adoption platform really made me think about the importance of its learning ecosystem. By exploring the features, I couldn't help but link it to a common challenge faced by many in the workplace.

Let me explain to you with a quick example. Imagine a new learning carpenter to use the time for use / time monitoring tool. Traditionally, this would imply connections, manuals or distinct explanatory videos – useful resources, but often long and detached from the real workflow. The team member should watch the video, change tabs, try to recall the steps, then try the task – by putting delays, confusion or errors.

Now imagine a different experience. As the employee connects to the platform, they are guided step by step on the tool itself. The DAP guides them through the time of grasping the time, highlights the required fields, pushes them into such a thing, and even recognizes the completion of the task with a sweet prompt. All this happens in real time, without having to leave the screen or refer to a separate resource.

This type of integrated support simplifies not only the learning curve, but also strengthens the 70:20:10 model – in particular the “learning by the fact” aspect. It is an effective, intuitive and centered learner to adopt new systems.

How the DAP aligns with the learning model 70:20:10

More than a technological layer, DAPs actively allow and supports learning in the workflow and align beautifully with the 70:20:10 model for learning and development. Let's be a little bad. What is the learning model 70:20:10?

1. 70% of learning comes from experienced experiences
2. 20% of interactions and comments
3. 10% of formal training

The model 70:20:10

Let's do it: DAP and the model 70:20:10

70%: Learn from experience

How Dap supports this
DAPs integrate learning into daily tasks. They guide users through new processes while they work – ensuring that learning feels natural and immediate.

Example
Let's say that a new employee learns to submit expenditure reports in a complex financing tool. Instead of taking a 30 -minute training, the DAP guides them live, step by step, in the tool. The employee does not leave the interface, is not stuck and learns by doing. Over time, they strengthen confidence, make fewer errors and internalize the process, while remaining productive.

Why it works
This kind of learning reflects the way people really learn in real life – trying, failing and improving. It is contextual, just in time and stimulates retention because it is linked to real results.

20%: Learn through others

How Dap supports this
Many DAPs allow integration with chatbots, peer advice or internal discussion forums. Most importantly, DAP can encourage users to request help or entries if necessary – to facilitate these crucial moments of social learning.

Example
During integration into a new role, a DAP could guide an employee via a project management tool and suggest: “Ask your leading team for examples of past project times.” Or it can point out a better practice evaluated by peers directly inside a workflow.

Why it works
This strengthens that learning is not a solo trip. By pushing learners to engage with others or to follow what peers do, DAP helps to fill the shortcomings of knowledge thanks to collaboration – something that a LMS does not often do.

10%: formal learning

How dap completes this
Although the DAPs are not designed to replace LMS, they improve formal learning by strengthening it. Once someone has finished an LMS module, a DAP can strengthen the same concepts at the point of application.

Example
An employee ends a course on best risk and security practices. Weeks later, when accessing a sensitive system, the DAP reminds them: “Do not forget to activate two -factor authentication – click here to do so” or “depending on business policy, you are not allowed to send this by email”. The concept of the LMS course is now linked to a real action, in real time.

Why it works
Formal learning sticks better when reinforced several times and in relevant moments. The DAPs ensure that these moments occur when and where they count the most.

To conclude

The 70:20:10 model has taught us that a large part of learning occurs informally – by doing and interacting in real time. I believe that digital adoption platforms (DAP) can considerably improve this type of learning, in particular by supporting employees directly in the workflow. An area where I see enormous potential is integration. For new carpenters sailing unknown tools and systems, DAPs can reduce friction and strengthen confidence from the first day. This is something I want to explore in the coming months.

I would love to hear those who have implemented DAPs in their learning ecosystem – which worked, which did not do and what you would do differently.

Warning: This is not a promotional position. These are personal opinions based on my research and a recent demo to which I attended.

Image credits:

The image in the body of this article was created and provided by the author.