YOUR TRAINING OBJECTIVES

July 23, 2014

The Business Dictionary defines “training objectives” as: “Measurable intended end result of a training program expressed in terms of (1) the desired behavior or skill level, (2) conditions under which it has to occur, and (3) the benchmark against which it will be measured.”

So, what do you want to accomplish with the objectives for your training initiatives?

Do your objectives include minimizing downtime, reducing scrap, cross training your workforce?

Or, are those objectives tied to a “CYA” strategy? In other words, are you going to justify your training initiatives by showing management the improvement results between pre-test and final exam scores?

If so, you’re not doing a very good job of helping your organization meet its top line and bottom line goals.

Does it not stand to reason that almost all individuals will make higher final exam scores than they scored during the pre-test? Of course! And, that simple memorization and regurgitation-of-information process will not necessarily translate into improved task accomplishment.

Downtime may not be minimized, scrap may not be reduced and, workers may not have improved their skill sets.

No! The objectives for your training initiatives should be measured against a “tasks-skills” result.

First, you need to know the tasks required to accomplish a reduction in downtime, a reduction in scrap and/or an increase in multi-craft skill sets.

Second, after consultation with your plant floor supervisory staff, you need to identify the skills required to positively impact those required tasks.

And, finally, you need to look at the results you achieve in downtime, scrap and multi-craft capability. The numbers will be available. And, the supervisory staff will see the results on-the-floor. Look at the numbers and talk with the supervisors. Only then will you be able to validate the success of the objectives for your training initiatives.

( A PERSONAL NOTE: This morning I received word that Mr. C. L. Aggarwal had passed away. C. L. was founder of Multi Media HRD Pvt. Ltd. in Mumbai and was 93 when he passed. Without any doubt, C. L. was one of the finest in the training industry and I will miss our long association greatly. A true pioneer with a character we all should envy. I was fortunate to call him my friend. )

More on Monday – – – – –

— Bill Walton, co-Founder of ITC Learning
bwalton@itclearning.com

“THE WORLD RELIES ON THE HANDS OF ITS MEN AND WOMEN”