The first step in designing effective training is to make sense of the outcomes of the needs assessment. That is, to think about what was learned in the needs assessment in terms of specific problems to be addressed during training.
This can be done through the use of a problem analysis decision tree. This involves asking the following questions in the order stipulated.
1. Is the identified problem important? That is, does it warrant the attention of the organization and training to correct it?
2. Is communication functioning well in this organization? Downward? Upward? Lateral?
3. What barriers to/problems with communication exist?
4. Are these barriers/problems process-related or people-related?
If they are process-related, training should be designed to facilitate information transfer primarily.
If they are people-related, training should be designed to resolve human relations problems
Next the trainer consultant must attempt to identify (in consultation with the organization, department, team, etc.) the goals of the training.
The trainer/consultant then sets specific measurable objectives that reflect the designated goals.
For example, a goal may be to improve the accuracy of upward communication between staff and management. A measurable objective could be an increase in management's confidence that they are receiving accurate information from staff.
Thus, before beginning any training the following steps are necessary:
• problems identification
• goals development
• designation of measurable objectives
Decisions about how best to proceed with training follow these steps. To become more familiar with these steps, work through the Training Preparation Steps Activity in this unit.
Unfortunately all training has to occur within particular constraints. Along with the stipulations set forth above, these are important considerations when designing training programs/initiatives.
The following factors can act as constraints:
• time available
• cost of implementation
• facilities available
• equipment and materials available
It is important to differentiate training techniques from training activities. Techniques are a broader classification, within which specific activities might fall. In the following section training techniques are reviewed, with attention devoted to the pros and cons of each technique.
There are countless specific training activities available for training as well. They are too numerous to discuss each, thus they are not profiled here. However, there are several resources provided in Unit 8: Training Activities that you will introduce you to the specific training activities available.