Planning the Training Program

Decisions about training are often the responsibility of a specialist in the human resources department. Planning begins with establishing objectives for the training program. Based on those objectives, the planner decides who will provide the training, what topics the training will cover, what training methods to use, and how to evaluate the training. Establishing objectives allows the training to be more focused, helps participants know what to expect, and provides a basis for measuring whether the program succeeded.

Effective training objectives include performance standards that are measurable and identify the resources needed to carry out the desired performance or outcome. An organization can provide an effective training program, even if it lacks expertise in training. Many organizations use outside experts to develop and present training courses. It is important to verify that the content of the training relates directly to the training objectives. Relevance to the organization’s needs and objectives ensures that training money is well spent.