ESTABLISHING A LEARNING and DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

Dear Colleagues,

I have been approached by a startup to help list down the essentials in establishing a Learning and Development Department for it.

Before I proceed ahead, an important note to remember for any startup reading this article:

“An organization’s specific learning requirements depend upon various factors like the industry it falls in, its size and above all its unique needs”.

There is no such thing as ‘one-shoe fits all’ when it comes to Learning needs.

Also, considering the evolving and changes in organization’s requirements, it is important to carry out a periodic assessment. This assessment can be done annually or once in two years, as the need be. This is carried out to help the learning department adapt to the organization’s strategies and evolving requirements.

The following are the four (4) key considerations while establishing a learning department in a startup:

1.?????Training Needs Analysis: This is carried out to conduct an assessment of the company's current and future training needs. This exercise identifies skill gaps and determine the learning objectives and goals.

2.?????Learning Strategy: A comprehensive learning strategy aligned with the company's overall goals and objectives must be formulated. The strategy will help identify the preferred learning methods, resources, and technologies that are to be used.

3.?????Training Programs: Design and develop training programs that address the identified training needs. The training programs should include both technical and soft skills training.

4.?????Learning Management System (LMS): ?An LMS or training management system is required to effectively plan, deliver, track, and manage training programs. A comprehensive LMS must provide features like course management, progress tracking, assessment, reporting and feedback functionalities.

Besides the above 4 listed key factors, there are some more essential factors like:

a.?????Budget and Resources,

b.?????Training Delivery,

c.?????Training Material Development,

d.?????Trainer/Facilitator Selection, and

e.?????Evaluation and Assessment.

Before concluding, I must stress on the need for a “Continuous Learning Culture” that must be fostered in your organization. The managers and the leaders alike, should encourage the employees to assume ownership of their development and upskilling.

Let me know if you require any details / support in detailing these steps further.

Regards.