Training Assessment

What is a training assessment?

A training assessment, also referred to as a training needs assessment (TNA) or training gap analysis, is a means of evaluating the effectiveness of a training program. Training needs assessments typically measure the knowledge retention, behavioral changes, and skill development of participating individuals to determine the training programs’ effectiveness.

Example: In our training assessment, we found that participants in our employee training program were scoring lower than expected on their final exams. Because of this, we were able to identify training adjustments necessary to create a more successful training program in the future.  

Training needs assessments can help businesses more effectively create tailored training programs that lead to organizational success by reducing skills gaps and increasing training effectiveness. They can also help reduce employee turnover, strengthen company culture, and increase employee engagement. 

Best practices for conducting training needs assessments

To properly assess training program effectiveness and develop targeted training programs that improve real organizational outcomes, start by gathering key data about your organization’s baseline. You can look into HR data like performance evaluations and exit interviews, conduct focus groups, and study key performance indicators (KPIs) across the organization. Analyzing this data can uncover trends and patterns that will then inform your plan for a future assessment process.