Assessing Business Change Management Training
As business change management experts we are often asked to suggest training for project delivery professionals. We generally don’t give specific recommendations (aside from our own of course), but how does someone assess training against their needs? What should they be looking for?
Before anyone undertakes training it is extremely useful to understand what they are trying to get out of it. Before looking at any course or methodology it’s good to write down what does success look like for you. Once you’ve done that, you’re in a good position to progress and research options.
Here are areas to consider, which it might be useful to score them 1 to 5.
1.Course Content: Review the course syllabus and content to ensure it covers all the essential aspects of business change management. Look for topics such as change theory, change models, stakeholder management, communication strategies, organisational culture, and project management methodologies.
Does it inform you, and expand on your knowledge? Does it use case studies and practical examples? Does it keep you interested? Watch some samples before signing up!
2.Relevance to Your Needs: Consider your specific goals and requirements. Look for courses that align with your industry, organisation size, and the types of projects or changes you anticipate managing. A course tailored to your needs will provide practical insights and relevant case studies.
Is it a more formal methodology or course? Or do you need something practical to help you and your team? Can you relate to it, or is it more academic?
3.Trainer's Expertise: Assess the qualifications and experience of the course instructor or trainer. Look for professionals who have a solid background in business change management, preferably with real-world project experience. Check their credentials, certifications, and reviews from past participants.
Are they a conference speaker? Do they have a YouTube presence or have they written a book? Are they a subject matter expert, and will they motivate you to learn well?
4.Delivery Method: Evaluate the course delivery method and format. Determine whether it is a traditional classroom-based course, an online program, or a blended approach. Consider your learning preferences, schedule flexibility, and the level of interaction and engagement offered by the course.
As any good change manager will know, people learn in different ways. Is this course aligned with your preference? What is your learning preference?
5.Learning Resources: Assess the learning resources provided with the course. Look for comprehensive materials such as textbooks, case studies, templates, and tools that will support your learning and application of business change management principles.
This is vital, as these templates, questionnaires or tools will be what benefit you in the long term as you continue to use the skills you learn in the course.
6.Reviews and Recommendations: Seek feedback from previous participants or professionals who have taken the course. Look for testimonials, reviews, or recommendations to gauge the course's effectiveness, relevance, and overall quality.
Get external feedback on the course, and the trainer. Be that an Amazon review of their book, or other testimonials from industry and related industry leaders, it’s important to assess these and gauge their appropriateness to you.
7.Accreditation or Certification: Check if the course is accredited or affiliated with recognized organizations in the field of change management. Accreditation adds credibility and ensures that the course meets certain quality standards.
This is important to ensure a baseline of quality. It may also make a difference for CPD accreditation and validating it’s worth your time. (and worth mentioning on your CV).
8.Cost and Value: Consider the course fees and evaluate them concerning the value provided. Compare the costs with the course duration, learning outcomes, and the potential impact it may have on your career or project success.
Courses range from free – expensive. 10 minutes to 5 day-long in-person lectures. What is right for your budget, the time you’ll commit and your learning objectives?
9.Networking Opportunities: Assess if the course offers networking opportunities with other professionals in the field. Connecting with peers and industry experts can provide valuable insights, support, and potential collaboration opportunities.
Does the course provider host networking events? Does it have a support network once you attend it? Who can you lean on for support after you are finished?
10.Post-Course Support: Inquire about post-course support, such as access to resources, ongoing learning opportunities, or mentoring. A course that offers continuous support can enhance your learning experience and help you apply the concepts effectively in your work.
A course is a one-off time commitment, but learning is for life. Will this course provider support you and help you in the long term, or not?
All these points are worth considering, however at the end of the day you need to trust yourself. Watch some presentations by the same trainer and feel if you connect with and learn from them in their free sessions.
That’s the easiest way to assess a course and see if you will benefit. Try their free presentations and see if you do!
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