In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, organisations recognise the importance of continuous learning and development to maintain a competitive edge. While technical skills are crucial, soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are equally vital. 

Corporate learning delivery and implementation are two fundamental pillars of an effective learning and development strategy. However, implementing soft skills training poses significant challenges without proper measurement. This blog explores these challenges and underscores the essential role of measurement in ensuring successful soft skills training programmes, especially in an emerging AI-driven corporate environment.

Understanding Corporate Learning Delivery and Implementation

Corporate Learning Delivery

Corporate learning delivery encompasses the various methods and channels through which learning content is provided to employees. 

These include:

• Instructor-Led Training (ILT): Trainers-led traditional classroom settings and workshops.
• E-Learning: Online courses accessible through Learning Management Systems (LMS).
• Blended Learning: A mix of ILT and e-learning, offering flexibility.
• Microlearning: Short, focused learning segments accessible on-demand.
• On-the-Job Training (OJT): Practical, hands-on learning guided by mentors.
• Social and Collaborative Learning: Peer-to-peer learning through discussion forums and social media.
• Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): Immersive learning experiences for complex skills and simulations.

Corporate Learning Implementation

Implementation involves planning, executing, and managing learning and development programmes. 

Key steps include:

• Needs Assessment: Identifying skills gaps and aligning learning objectives with business goals.
• Programme Design: Developing a structured curriculum and selecting appropriate delivery methods.
• Resource Allocation: Allocating budget, time, and human resources.
• Communication: Promoting learning programmes and communicating objectives.
• Execution: Rolling out learning programmes and facilitating training sessions.
• Support and Facilitation: Providing ongoing support and troubleshooting.
• Evaluation and Feedback: Measuring learning outcomes and collecting feedback.
• Continuous Improvement: Refining programmes based on feedback and changing needs.

The Challenges of Implementing Soft Skills Training Without Measurement

Implementing soft skills training in corporate settings presents unique challenges, particularly regarding measurement. Soft skills are more abstract and harder to quantify than technical skills, which can be assessed through straightforward tests and certifications. Here are some key challenges:

1. Intangible Outcomes

Soft skills such as leadership, empathy, and communication are inherently subjective. Without measurement, it isn't easy to gauge whether the training is making a tangible impact. Employees might attend sessions and participate in activities, but without a way to measure progress, the actual effectiveness of the training remains uncertain.

2. Lack of Accountability

Without measurable outcomes, there is a lack of accountability for both learners and trainers. Employees might not take the training seriously if they know their performance won't be assessed. Similarly, trainers may not feel compelled to ensure the training is practical if there are no metrics to evaluate their success.

3. Difficulty in Demonstrating ROI

Organisations invest significant resources in training programmes. With measurement, it is easier to demonstrate a return on investment (ROI). Decision-makers need concrete data to justify the expense and effort of implementing soft skills training.

4. Inconsistent Application

Soft skills training aims to bring about behavioural change, which requires consistent application over time. Without measurement, it’s hard to ensure that employees apply what they've learned daily. This inconsistency can lead to fragmented improvements and limit the overall impact of the training.

The Critical Importance of Soft Skills Training in an AI-Driven Corporate Environment

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to revolutionize the corporate world, the significance of soft skills training has never been more pronounced. While AI can automate many technical tasks, it cannot replicate the human elements of leadership, creativity, and emotional intelligence. This underscores the urgent need for employees to develop these skills and effectively collaborate with AI technologies, fostering innovation in an increasingly automated environment.

The research underscores the growing importance of soft skills. A report by the World Economic Forum highlights that by 2025, skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and self-management will be among the most sought-after in the workplace. This shift necessitates a robust approach to soft skills training, making measurement even more critical to ensure these skills are developed effectively.

Research Insights on Measurement in Soft Skills Training

Research highlights the importance of measurement in soft skills training. According to a study by LinkedIn Learning, organisations that measure the impact of their training programmes are more likely to see improvements in employee performance and business outcomes. Another Association for Talent Development (ATD) report emphasises that companies with robust measurement practices are better at aligning their training programmes with business goals and achieving desired results.

The Role of Skilly in Measurement

Skilly, a comprehensive learning management platform, can be pivotal in addressing these challenges. Here's how:

1. Quantifiable Assessments

Skilly offers tools to create assessments that quantify soft skills development. By using simulations, role-playing exercises, and 360-degree feedback mechanisms, organisations can effectively measure intangible outcomes.

2. Data-Driven Insights

With Skilly, organisations can track and analyse training participation, completion rates, and post-training performance data. This data provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of the training and areas needing improvement.

3. Enhanced Accountability

Skilly ensures accountability for both learners and trainers by setting measurable goals and tracking progress. Employees are more likely to engage with the training seriously when they know their progress is monitored.

4. Demonstrating ROI

Skillys' robust analytics capabilities help organisations demonstrate the ROI of their soft skills training programmes. Detailed reports on learning outcomes and their impact on business performance make it easier to justify investments in training.

Conclusion

Practical soft skills training is crucial for corporate success, especially in an AI-driven environment, but it can only be achieved with proper measurement. The challenges of intangible outcomes, lack of accountability, difficulty demonstrating ROI, and inconsistent application underscore the necessity of robust measurement practices. As the saying goes, 'What gets measured gets managed.' In the realm of corporate learning, this couldn't be truer.

Platforms like Skilly provide the tools and insights to overcome these challenges, ensuring that soft skills training delivers meaningful and measurable results. Investing in measurement enhances the effectiveness of training programmes and aligns them with organizational goals, ultimately driving business success.

Investing in measurement enhances the effectiveness of training programmes and aligns them with organisational goals, ultimately driving business success. As the saying goes, "What gets measured gets managed." In the realm of corporate learning, this couldn't be truer.

References:

LinkedIn Learning. (2020). Workplace Learning Report.

Association for Talent Development (ATD). (2019). State of the Industry Report.

World Economic Forum. (2020). Future of Jobs Report.