HR Definitions

Training and Development is a primary function of Human Resource Management.

The combination of the terms Training and Development is predominantly because of the interrelationship of the two processes.

Training is predominantly about enhancing the work related skills and knowledge of an individual.

Development is more to do with individual growth that enables the person to realise their potential, not confined to the existing job function.

Typically, an organisation would Train someone to do the current job, and Develop that person to allow him or her to be considered for other, more complex or demanding jobs.

At HRworkbench, we provide a wide range of tools to assist with both the Training and Development functions.

Training can be either:

• A formal course of instruction, at or away from the workplace
• Instruction at the workplace under the close supervision of a skilled person; this is called "on the job training"

Development can be achieved through activities such as:

• A formal course that educates and extends the thinking and skill level of the person
• Acting in a more senior role for a short period of time
• Secondment to another role for a period of time
• Undertaking a series of short courses with disparate topics
• Attendance at seminars about topics of interest
• Self learning through personal research projects

Best practice for implementing Training and Development activities in an organisation should include:

• The progressive or periodic conduct of a workplace training needs analysis
• Formulation of in-house, or outsourcing of training programs to enhance core skills needed for existing job functions
• Personal development plans for all employees
• Analysis of future job functions within the organisation and the development of a gap analysis with time frames that indicate when those functions need to be available
• Mapping the gap analysis to determine whether the required skills, knowledge, and behaviour are available in-house, can be acquired externally, or need to be developed
• The creation of a succession plan to replace all key roles in the organisation
• The formulation of a Training and Development plan that ensures that skills, knowledge, and appropriate behaviours are available when the organisation needs them

Performance Management
Staff Performance