In the world of human resources, some things are changing fast, partly as a result of new software options that enhance what hiring managers and others are able to do in recruiting, on-boarding and workforce management processes.

One of the big trends right now is toward more diverse online learning functionality, which can be useful when it comes to getting new hires up to speed. Traditionally, new employees did simple training tests and watched videos online, but with new collaborative software, HR departments are doing a lot more to facilitate better learning outcomes.

In the HR landscape, something called "microlearning" is getting a lot of attention. Microlearning splits key learning tasks into handy modules, which helps HR managers to work them into an on-boarding schedule.

AthenaOnline is a company helping to implement this HR revolution. It offers "QuickCoach" sessions aimed at "delivering actionable information in five minutes or less," according to the company.

AthenaOnline CEO John Peters has seen vibrant demand for these types of learning services as human resources changes in the new millennium.

"It's really an expert-driven approach," Peters told HR Daily Wire on Jan. 4, explaining how the company uses subject matter experts such as professors to build microlearning modules.

"Organizations are trying to tie technologies together," Peters said of how clients are using AthenaOnline's services. More clients, he said, want interactive functionality -- instead of just presenting a microlearning module, they want to be able to ask questions and offer comments, which is why, he said, AthenaOnline's QuickCoach projects are so successful.

Peters said the company has worked with clients including Trinity Health and the University of Iowa to create custom campaigns allowing these stakeholders to innovate HR resources.

"We've had people use (the microlearning sessions) as meeting-starters," Peters said, describing a "threaded discussion" functionality that promotes key communications around content. "People want more interaction."

Essentially, these microlearning services are changing the face of corporate training. By being able to collaborate better, teams are reaching their goals by closely inspecting business processes and weighing in through easy-to-use platforms. It's part of an "HR renaissance" that is going to impact the future of business, and the signs are evident right now, that learning management continues to change and evolve as a key aspect of how today's business gets done.