Top Tips from L&D Experts: How to Keep Your Training Development Project on Track

Imagine the perfect training development project: everything runs smoothly, deadlines are met, and the end result leads to a dramatic increase in employee performance. Now, snap back to reality. Keeping a training development project on track is a challenge that even the most experienced Learning & Development (L&D) professionals grapple with every day. So, how do you make that dream a reality?

One solution is to ask an expert. In this post, we’ll explore the insights and strategies shared by seasoned L&D professionals on how to successfully navigate the complex world of training development projects. From setting SMART goals to embracing flexibility, these tips will help you keep your project on track and set your team up for success.

1. Set SMART Goals

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“The key to keeping any project on track is setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals,” says a Senior L&D Manager at a Fortune 500 company. Start by identifying the desired outcome of your training development project, then break it down into smaller, manageable objectives. This way, your team knows exactly what they need to accomplish, and you can easily measure progress along the way.

2. Establish Clear Communication Channels

A lack of effective communication is often cited as a primary reason projects go off track. Open and consistent communication helps ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding expectations, deadlines, and any changes that may arise. One L&D consultant suggests, “Establish a central platform for communication, like a project management tool or shared document, where team members can collaborate and stay informed on project updates.”

3. Anticipate and Manage Risks

Every project comes with its fair share of risks. The key to keeping your training development project on track is identifying these risks early on and developing a plan to manage them. An L&D Director advises, “Conduct a thorough risk assessment before starting your project, and create contingency plans for potential obstacles. This way, you’re prepared to tackle any challenges that may arise and minimize their impact on your project’s timeline.”

4. Foster a Culture of Flexibility

Flexibility is crucial in the ever-evolving world of L&D. One training development project manager notes, “Encourage your team to be open to change and adapt to new information, tools, or processes. This adaptive mindset allows your project to pivot when necessary and stay on track, even when faced with unexpected obstacles.”

5. Turn to Learnexus for Expert Support

Keeping your training development project on track can be daunting, but you don’t have to face it alone. With Learnexus, you can quickly and easily find and hire qualified L&D freelancers with the specific skills and experience you need. By tapping into the expertise of these professionals, you’ll save time, reduce costs by 47%, and eliminate procurement issues with a single master services agreement, ensuring your project’s success.