Chapter 12Evaluating Training
Evaluation Basics
How many times have you heard someone say, “It was a great training program but…”? Unfortunately, that statement (or a variation) is spoken far too often and reflects a growing concern by both line managers and senior management that training is costly and not always worth the investment of time and money. This attitude is also reflected in the actions of senior managers who cut training budgets first when times are tough.
Purposes of Evaluation
Following are some of the main reasons to evaluate:
- To determine whether the training achieves its objectives
- To assess the value of training programs
- To identify areas of the program that need improvement
- To identify the appropriate audience for future programs
- To review and reinforce key program parts for participants
- To sell a program to management and participants
Linking Evaluation to the Needs Assessment
Clearly, needs assessment is critical to the success of any training initiative. It provides the basis for program development and establishes the criteria for measuring the success of the program after its completion. For evaluation to have any meaning, it must be tied to the needs-assessment process. Always remember that the evaluation process should reflect specific business-related or performance-related ...
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