Training Needs Analysis

In this course we cover the process of identifying skills gaps within an organisation and provide guidance on implementing correction strategies. We explore the benefits of targeted learning and consider the impact on the return on investment for employers. We dive into the preparations needed to conduct a fair, valid and reliable analysis and provide steps to conduct the training needs assessment in line with a project plan. Lastly we consider how to present your findings to ensure it has an impact and drives change in the hopes of creating a strong learning culture within your organisation.

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Your course

Overview

Prepare for information gathering
Gather information on learners
Carry out a basic skills audit
Compile a report on the target audience and skills gaps

4 Weeks

Duration

8 Lessons

Plus toolkits

1 Modules

Online

Diploma

Certification

Of your course.

module 1

Training Needs Analysis

What is a Training Needs Assessment?
Training needs assessments or skills audits are the keys to strategic, targeted and effective learning cultures. Training should create engagement whilst at the same time securing return on investment for the organisation. This lesson is about discovering the importance and value of conducting proper, in-debt skills audits.
Scope, Target Audience and Objectives
Valuable training needs assessments start with clearly defined goals and objectives. Skills audits should be conducted with the aim to identify and address skills gaps within an organisation.
Align Objectives with Company Policy
Return on investment is secured when the objectives of a skills audit are aligned with company policy and priorities. Project success is also greatly dependent on the support and participation of project participants.
Create Data-gathering Resources
Learn how to structure questions to obtain valid, reliable and fair results. The ability to correct skills gaps is directly related to the information obtained. Where information is vague or unreliable, any action taken will have less than favourable results.
Identify Data Sources
The effectiveness of a training needs assessment is dependent on the accuracy of the data used to conduct the assessment. If the information obtained is incorrect or unreliable, the outcomes will also be incorrect.
Obtain Project Approval
A skills audit can be a lengthy, resource-intensive process as it requires the participation of multiple individuals, and the preparation of resources, if these are not in place. A project plan aims to confirm and align end goals with company priorities and ensure that the project stays on track to ensure goals are reached.
Conduct a Skills Audit

In its simplest form, a skills audit is a 3 step process, gather data, collate data and identify gaps. It’s time to apply the knowledge gained throughout the course to conduct a skills audit. Harness the power of a skills matrix and take steps to ensure effective, accurate, cost-and-time-effective training needs assessments are integrated to everyday activities.
Present your Findings
Conducting a skills audit is the first step to building a strong learning culture, but this is a lot of work and time wasted if gaps identified are not corrected. Consider the benefits of a balance scorecard and related tactics to put your plans to correct skills gaps in motion.