Training Assessments That Tell You What You Want and Need to Know

When you are charged with either creating the content of proposed training or evaluating the effectiveness of past training, you need to take a multi-level look at what is needed or what was actually accomplished.

Training needs assessment has come a long way since it simply measured skill acquisition.  The best assessments provide data not only on what skills have been learned but also whether a trainee has mastered the skills enough to actually apply them effectively on the job in a manner that improves performance. This is not just a matter of skills but of competency and impact.

Competency-based assessments link training to results. Beyond telling you if the training participant has learned the skills, you can predict whether or not the participant is likely to apply the skills in a way that makes sense in the workplace. Competency-based training needs assessments look at the complete employee…their technical, business, strategic and soft skills. Doesn’t that give you a better picture of how a job candidate might perform in your environment or how a learner might practically perform? Competency-based assessments may take more investment in time on your part, but they provide far more valuable information in terms of business results.

The bottom line?  Make sure that you assess skill acquisition and performance impact.

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