12 Keys to Delivering a Successful Training

By Elizabeth Long

There are many considerations to make when choosing the right delivery method for training. Whatever method is chosen, concentrating on activities for participants and opportunities for practice is an important element to a successful training.

When deciding on the most effective method for delivering your training, remember that each situation is unique. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

1. How complex is the change?
   • Complex concepts are best delivered as Instructor Led Training (ILT) so students can perform hands-on activities
   • Low complexity concepts are better candidates for Computer Based Training (CBT)
   • If the change is highly complex, consider a Train The Trainer (TTT) approach so ILT can be delivered
2. Where are the impacted users located?
   • If the audience is spread out, a CBT can be easily distributed to many locations
3. How many people are impacted by the change?
   • A large number can also be a good reason to choose CBT as delivery method
   • However, if the change is highly complex, consider a TTT approach so ILT can be delivered
4. Is this a training that will be ongoing?
   • If so, a CBT can be cost effective for long-term training versus continually providing a training resource for ILT delivery
   • However, if it is a high complex topic, ILT may be the most effective

Instructor Led Training (ILT) considerations:

1. Technology
   • Do you need laptop/projector/conference phone/microphone? Make sure to contact IT in advance to ensure the room in which you are delivering training has these capabilities and is set up
   • Allow time in advance to make sure the technology is working
2. Capacity
   • Make sure the facility will accommodate the size of the audience
3. Location
   • Ensure everyone can access the room
4. Travel
   • If anyone has to travel to the training, help to ensure arrangements are made
5. Room accommodations
   • Make sure there accessible computers for the learners

Computer Based Training (CBT) considerations:

1. Make sure computers have sound capability or access for headphones
2. Ensure ADA Compliance
3. Check on the compatibility of the computer for viewing the CBT (example: JAVA and browser versions/settings, accessing a WebEx, etc.)

Partnership between the training developer and the Product Owner is key when deciding on the appropriate delivery method. Discuss the audience and, using the considerations above, you can decide together on the best choice for training delivery. Partnership is key!

About the Author: Elizabeth Long is a professional Organization Development Consultant and Curriculum Developer/Trainer. She received her Certification in Organizational Change Management from Prosci and is certified in e-learning development from Langevine Learning Center. Elizabeth has worked in many industries: High tech, healthcare, and state and local government. Currently, Elizabeth works as an Executive Consultant with KAI Partners, Inc. as a contractor working in a variety of California State Departments. Elizabeth has lived in Sacramento for the past 17 years and appreciates the history of Sacramento as well as its convenience to many well-known destinations like San Francisco, Tahoe, and Reno.