4 Training Assessment Warning Signs to Avoid at All Costs

Too many well-intentioned companies undertake surveys without a solid and implementable plan to take action in a way that makes sense compared to all of the other priorities on their plate.

Too many employee engagement survey results and skill assessments languish on the shelf before meaningful action is taken. No wonder so many groan at the mere thought of taking another survey. This phenomenon even has a name at many companies – “Survey Fatigue.”  It does not mean that people are tired of taking surveys.  It means that they are weary of taking surveys that do not matter.

Our mantra as training needs assessment experts in the business for over 20 years? Do not administer a survey simply out of curiosity. Conduct an assessment only if you plan to take immediate action when the results are known – because it is just that important to you, the target audience, their boss and the business.

Here are four warning signs that the recommendations from your assessment may not get implemented:

1. Lack of Relevance.  The survey did not have the backing of key decision makers. It was not connected to the business strategy and lacked priority in the overall scheme of the “important and urgent.”
2. Lack of Implementation Methodology.  There was little or no methodology in place to complete action steps in a way that made sense in your unique corporate culture and business context. Without a clear and agreed to process for action, little will be accomplished.
3. Lack of Accountability.  Managers were not held accountable for implementation. If the front-line managers have no “skin in the game,” they are unlikely to follow through on action items where it counts…with their direct reports.
4. Lack of Benefits.  The impact of survey implementation was never made fully clear. If no one understands the value of action and the impact it can have on the business, why bother?

If you want real change, make sure your assessment and the implementation plan makes sense to the target audience, their bosses and the business.

Learn more at: http://www.lsaglobal.com/training-needs-assessment/