Learn to detect and recover from errors in a practice environment without real consequences.
Well supportedSeveral studies or meta-analyses point the same way.
Example
Editorial example: practice undoing a mistake on a fictional invoice without billing or sending it.
Why it works
Keith and Frese synthesize error-management training studies, distinguishing fewer training errors from transferring skills to new tasks.
On the web
Clearly separate practice from production, explain errors and recovery, and assess transfer while monitoring real incidents separately.
When it backfires
Training evidence never justifies inducing real mistakes. Billing, deletion and permissions require a consequence-free environment.
Sources
Synthesizes error-management training effects, including transfer to new tasks.
Keith, N., & Frese, M. (2008). Effectiveness of error management training: A meta-analysis. Journal of Applied Psychology, 93, 59–69. Open source