Corporate Trainers Pressed for Time

Ticktock: Corporate trainers are being pressed to minimize training time that takes employees away from their jobs, says a newly released study by Novations Group, a Boston-based global consulting firm.

The Internet survey conducted by Equation Research included responses from 2,046 human resources and training and development executives. They reported reduced classroom hours, more training done on the job and greater reliance on e-learning.

Novations senior vice president Rebecca Hefter says the findings don’t reflect a lack of regard for leadership or employee development by senior management. To the contrary, the study found investment in training continues to rise, but that the training is increasingly taking place away from the classroom. Now, says Hefter, ways to extend learning beyond the classroom include learning logs, job aids, action plans and printed reminders.

“Companies want training that’s relevant and with exercises that closely simulate the work that is conducted on the job,” Hefter says.