Online tools target training ROI

Learning and Development (L&D) and training initiatives clearly fulfil ‘soft’ objectives, such as employee engagement, but it’s crucial now to ensure that investments in these areas give something more tangible back to the business.  With this in mind, CMI has developed two new management tools so businesses can check that they are training people in the skills they need, and then reap the maximum reward from that training.

The first, an employee assessment package, which includes two modules – Perform and Engage – can reveal vital  gaps in managers’ skills, then measure their progress after targeted training.  The product is a partnership between Cognisco and CMI, which will take the lead in creating tailored training for candidates, and includes mentoring and coaching and online support, on a group  or individual basis.

Ian Myson, Head of Product Management at CMI, says: “We use leading-edge assessment methods to assess both competence and confidence levels of employees. Looking at individuals against these two dimensions enables the product to deliver a unique combination of needs analysis, risk assessment and capability measurement, with subsequent development more effectively targeted to employees’ needs.”

The second, an integrated alignment tool – part of CMI’s ROI Service – features a combination of bespoke consultation and online survey and analysis features. These allow you to assess the approach to L&D in your organisation, to consider how well it aligns to core business objectives, and then to provide a mechanism for measuring improvements in capability. The full service, including face-to-face consultancy, is due to be fully up and running by mid-year. 

Rather than trying to assess the impact of L&D afterwards, the initial thinking is done so training is directed at the areas that will most benefit the business and where there is a demonstrated need. To get more from your L&D, call 01536 207404 or email employer.engagement@managers.org.uk