Most organizations execute generic training programs for entire departments without truly understanding what areas of training are required, and by whom. After much time and investment in training program execution, there are typically no mechanisms in place to determine overall training effectiveness and return on investment (ROI). Using a knowledge measurement solution to establish and evaluate training programs, you will be able to:

• Determine who in your organization needs training
• Understand what areas / tasks / disciplines training should focus on
• Optimize investment balance between training and organizational skill needs
• Ensure training is part of your employee development process (appraisal, recognition, reward)
• Link assessment results to ‘prescriptive’ training courses

Use IKM to Assess-Train-Assess (ATA)
IKM’s Assess-Train-Assess approach to workforce development facilitates initial assessment of skill gaps, training to meet the needs identified by the skill gap, then follow-up assessments to determine the extent of which the training need has been met.

Assess
On a department or enterprise-wide level, IKM’s Skill Gap Analysis aggregates skills so group skill gaps can be identified. This allows for customization of course content and/or course delivery for targeted training to specific areas of group weakness. (For more information on available reports for training, please click here.)

Train
Based on the assessment results, you can form homogenous training groups and utilize IKM TrainingLink™ that automatically directs an individual to the training course required. This improves the efficiency of your training process and heightens information absorbed by the learners.

Assess
Many clients have found it useful to conduct pre- and post-training assessment for a given class. Not only does the pre-training assessment help target training needs, but also it provides a benchmark from which the post-training assessments can be compared. Such a comparison can substantiate the transfer of knowledge and pinpoint areas not sufficiently understood by the class. (For more information on available reports for training, please click here.)

For ongoing professional development, IKM Proficiency Profiles™ are stored in the database and may be printed or referenced as needed. IKM SkillSearch™, allows searching for individuals who possess strengths in certain areas that is ideal for planning and resource allocation after training, and for identifying potential mentors.

Unlike many assessments on the market today, the information captured and stored is not isolated to a single event. It has value that can be used throughout the organization. Various department managers may use the data for day-to-day resource allocation and project team development. Executives may gain group and enterprise perspectives for broader budgeting and planning purposes.