Many learning executives are concerned about visibility. They lament that they are not included early and sufficiently in the strategic work of the organization. Many seek appreciation and recognition for the learning enterprise, their learning enterprise. This long-standing concern has well-worn answers. I've offered some myself: align vigorously with the strategic purposes of the organization measure the learning enterprise against the metrics that matter most to the organization and leaders communicate with leadership through dashboards and stories riveted to high value metrics use data to continuously improve experiences and … [Read more...]
Trending in Workplace Learning 2015….
January 13, 2015 by
Many colleagues have asked what I think will emerge in workplace learning in 2015. Some put it this way, "Have you read anything worthwhile that summarizes trends for 2015?" Or this, often this, "I should be assessing my learning organization as we move into a new year. It's an opportunity. Got a bumper sticker on trends, 2015?" I don't have that bumper sticker. What I do have is enthusiasm about reflecting on emergent directions in workplace learning. I've been reviewing what others (such as Malamed, Deloitte/Bersin, and Taylor) have to say on this matter. Here is where I think workplace learning will trend in 2015. I'm consciously … [Read more...]
The best way to strengthen the learning organization is to ….
September 23, 2013 by
A friend took over a large, far-flung learning organization. His task was to strengthen it. Strengthen it. Two words, hundreds of possibilities. Perhaps my recommendations aren't what you would expect: Think less about the learning organization and more about the company or agency. Get really smart about the context. What is keeping the executives up at night? They want you to strengthen learning in order to do what? Change what? Add what? Fix what? Fight the inclination to tend to your edifice and head count. Instead focus on building learning, community and reference capacity in line with organizational priorities. Deliver less … [Read more...]
Colorful Consulting: Lessons from Larry
July 10, 2013 by
Today I learned about consulting from a surprising source. It began at lunch yesterday, when my usually positive pal Ellie remarked that my hair wasn’t looking so great. I think the word she used was listless. The cut was fine. But she wondered about the color. What was up with the color? In order to tell this story I have to admit that I’ve been throwing color at my hair for years. Recently, I’ve encouraged my stylist to use a bit less color, to help me transition to a more real me, a salt and pepper me. But it has been a few steps forward and then about the same number of steps backwards. Just when I think I am ready to let the … [Read more...]
A World Without Objectives– Please NO
July 12, 2012 by
Here is what a world without objectives might sound like-- "I don't know. What do you think? Last year we covered ice breakers. How about a session on humor this year?" "Well, I'm not entirely certain what scenario-based elearning would do for us, but I know our competitors are doing it." "I want to build a great program for the reps, but not sure what to do. Role plays? Job aids? Videos? Drills? All of them? How do I decide?" "We got a really good speaker. She is funny, really a hoot. Let her talk about whatever." "Mobile devices are all the rage and I think we should put this on them, so they can check them out whenever." "I … [Read more...]
Consulting with executives to turn technology investments into results
June 19, 2012 by
Technology is not the answer. Not automatically. But many executives thought it would be so, that it was a matter of selection and investment. Now, many look back on prior enthusiasms for technology-based learning with tales to tell of dashed hopes. With hindsight, they know that nothing is automatic, not even mobile learning, and that success does not come easily. No longer do executives see technology as learning fairy dust. They know it's a minefield out there. Those of us who believe in technology for learning and support must contribute by helping executives find those mines and do something about each and every one of them. Here … [Read more...]
Needs analysis– something old, something new
May 31, 2012 by
When I was a young professor of instructional design and technology at San Diego State University, students often sought advice on how to make decisions about outcomes and strategies. At that time, back in the late 70s, mostly they were concerned about instructional design for face-to-face classes. Even when working on classroom programs, they were flummoxed by the scores of decisions they had to make. My students wanted help with planning. Some call that planning needs assessment. Others prefer needs analysis. Many weigh in for performance analysis or front end analysis. One nickname that makes me smile is disambiguating whatchamacallit. … [Read more...]
Is Your Training On the Trivial?
May 24, 2012 by
I’d like to introduce you to a friend, Rob Foshay. Rob is my guest blogger and a pal for decades. Here is what Rob has to say: So, you know what the gaps are between your company’s average performers, and their expert performers. And, you’ve done your analysis of the job skills involved. And you’ve done your gap analysis to figure out what the highest priorities are for training. Are you really focused on what’s most important for your company (or client)? Maybe not. There might be an entire category of job performance that your analysis has missed: It’s what your master performers have – but it may not even be understandable to … [Read more...]
Introducing New Technology: From Promise to Reality
May 9, 2012 by
Meet Jeff Loube My guest blogger is Jeff Loube. Jeff describes himself as a practitioner who has completed analysis and design projects such as basic, multi-engine and rotary wing pilot training, maintenance training systems, and maintenance training simulator design, prototyping and development. Jeff is managing editor of MS&T (Military Simulation and Training) magazine, http://halldale.com/mst Here is what Jeff has to say about introducing new technology into the organization. Have you ever been the victim of a new technology initiative, like say a new LMS or a mobile learning initiative or even a new accounting system? They … [Read more...]
Making Evidence-based Decisions
March 11, 2012 by
Video: Profiles in Leadership: Making Evidence-based Decisions Click thumbnail to view video … [Read more...]
