Learning and development strategy

 
 
 

Introduction

This section of HR-inform demonstrates the importance of linking learning and development (L&D) strategies with the strategy, goals and objectives of the organisation.

HR specialists must build relationships and gain credibility with their strategic stakeholders in order to effectively align learning and development with the goals of the business.

 
Learning and development strategy key points

  • Strategy concerns itself with organisational change, achieving outcomes and business results - providing a framework for transformation.
  • The role of the HRD professional has to be that of a strategic business partner. They must play a vital part in shaping the direction of the organisation and in creating the learning and development conditions to ensure that organisational strategy, goals and results are achieved.
  • The HRD specialist should go 'back to basics' with an analysis of the organisation.
  • The key to success for the HRD specialist is to have a clear understanding of the structure of the organisation and the job roles contained within it.
  • The HRD specialist must consider whether the organisation views its people as a cost or as an asset.
  • An analysis of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) of the HRD portfolio and how it can support the organisation to deal with the strategic issues will help in the definition of the objectives for a learning and development strategy.
  • It is vital that the HRD specialist links each learning and development objective with a meaningful key strategic measure in order to integrate the learning and development strategy with the organisation.
  • The mission should clearly outline the organisation's approach and beliefs with regard to people development and will lead to a series of strategic objectives for the HRD function itself.
  • To support the shift from training to learning, the HRD specialist should create a learning and development policy framework that will support an organisational culture where people take responsibility for their own learning.
  • In order to fully integrate the learning and development strategy within the organisation, an effective communication strategy will need to be communicated.
 
 

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