Google Workspace, previously known as G Suite, is a collection of cloud computing, productivity and collaboration tools developed by Google for businesses, education providers and governments. Google Workspace includes popular applications like Gmail, Docs, Drive, Calendar, Meet and more. There are many options available to learn how to effectively use Google Workspace, whether you are just starting out or looking to improve your skills.
Some of the most common places to learn Google Workspace include Google’s own training resources, third-party courses and certifications, online tutorials and communities, and through your organization if they use Google Workspace. The best options allow you to learn at your own pace, focus on the applications you use most, and get hands-on practice. With so many collaborative features and integrations between the apps, there’s a lot to discover within Google Workspace!
Google Workspace Training Center
One of the best places to start is the official Google Workspace Training Center. Google offers a number of self-paced online courses and resources focused on all the different Google Workspace applications. Some key advantages of using Google’s training resources include:
- Completely free access
- Covers all Google Workspace apps in one place
- Self-paced with ability to track progress
- Includes hands-on exercises and quizzes
- Focused on key tasks and workflows
The Training Center organizes the resources into Beginner, Advanced and Admin levels so you can easily find content suited to your skill level and needs. You can choose to complete entire courses for a broad overview, or focus on specific applications you want to improve. Some of the most popular courses focus on Gmail, Calendar, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides and Meet.
Key Google Workspace Training Center Resources
- Skillshop – Google’s primary training portal with self-paced courses for Google Workspace and other products.
- Chromebook Training – Courses focused on using Chromebooks and Google Workspace together.
- Google Workspace Learning Center – Tips, workflows and guidance organized by app and topic.
- Google Workspace Certifications – Advanced certifications to validate and demonstrate skills.
- Google Workspace Learning Community – Discussion forums to connect with other users.
Third-Party Courses and Certifications
In addition to Google’s own training resources, there are a number of third-party platforms that offer Google Workspace courses and certifications. These give you another option for structured, comprehensive training from industry experts. Some popular providers include:
- Coursera – Partners with Google for their Google Workspace Administrator and Google Workspace for Education certifications.
- edX – Offers the Google Workspace Administrator course and certification exam.
- Udemy – Large marketplace with a variety of video-based courses on Google Workspace apps and workflows.
- LinkedIn Learning – Contains extensive libraries of on-demand courses for common Google Workspace apps.
- A Cloud Guru – IT training platform with Google Workspace courses focused on certification prep.
The main benefits of third-party training include structured curriculums, expert instructors, certificate completion tracking, and certifications you can add to your resume. Downsides may include costs for some platforms and content that overlaps with Google’s free training.
Notable Google Workspace Certifications
Some of the most recognized Google Workspace certifications include:
- Google Workspace Administrator – Validates skills to deploy, configure, secure and manage Google Workspace services.
- Google Workspace for Education – Demonstrates ability to deploy and manage Google Workspace in education settings.
- G Suite Professional Collaboration Engineer – Advanced certification for deploying and managing collaboration tools.
- Google Workspace Certified Trainer – For individuals who train others on Google Workspace.
Online Tutorials and Communities
There is a wealth of information available online for learning Google Workspace through community-driven tutorials, guides, blog posts and discussions. Some good resources include:
- YouTube – Step-by-step video tutorials covering common workflows.
- Reddit – Active Google Workspace communities to ask questions and share tips.
- Google Workspace Learning Center – Google’s official community forums and content library.
- Blog Posts/Guides – Walkthroughs from leading Google Workspace experts and trainers.
- Instructor-led virtual courses – Small online training classes focused on key applications.
The benefits of these community resources include the ability to learn at your own pace for free, get quick answers to specific questions, and discover best practices from other users. The downside can be finding content relevant to your skill level in a fragmented landscape.
Useful Google Workspace YouTube Channels
Some recommended YouTube channels for Google Workspace tutorials include:
- Google Workspace Training
- G Suite
- Hector Garcia CPC, MCTS
- Dan Sullivan
- The Teacher’s Tech
- BetterCloud
Internal Training at Your Organization
If your organization already uses Google Workspace, leverage available internal training resources and experts. Many organizations develop customized courses, documentation and support to align with their deployments and workflows. Your IT or tech training department may offer:
- Live or recorded webinars
- In-person or virtual workshops
- Periodic refresher and update training
- New user orientation programs
- Knowledge bases/wikis with internal guides
- Email distribution lists for asking questions
- Floor support for assistance
Internal training can provide the most relevant best practices for your organization and processes. Make sure to take advantage of these resources to improve productivity and collaboration.
Top Tips for Learning Google Workspace
Here are some top tips to get the most out of learning Google Workspace:
- Start with the basics – Learn core features and functionality first before advanced workflows.
- Focus on key apps – Prioritize the Google Workspace apps and services your team uses the most.
- Reinforce with practice – Apply what you learn through hands-on practice and experimentation.
- Learn collaboratively – Have training “buddies” to reinforce and discuss learnings.
- Train others – The best way to master skills is to teach others what you learn.
- Stay up to date – Continue learning as Google Workspace evolves with new features.
Conclusion
With Google’s official training center, third-party courses, community resources and internal training, there are many options to master Google Workspace. Focus on structured programs for core skills and utilize collaborative tools and discussions to refine workflows and advance your expertise over time. Consider getting certified in Google Workspace to validate and demonstrate your skills.
Investing in learning Google Workspace pays dividends through more productive, efficient and collaborative work powered by Google’s tools. Approach training as an ongoing process as features continue evolving and expanding.