A global software organization asked us to build a new program to support developing technical talent and senior experts (currently underserved audience). The audience included 200 potential participants; 36 senior technical leaders per year.
The software organization realized organizational development efforts traditionally focused on people leaders. As a result, these individuals found themselves in very senior positions, making key strategic contributions without targeted development. Challenges included highly diverse skill levels, lack of prior training, functional expertise, and differing time zones.
Client planned to spend approximately $100,000 per year; $75,000 for design.
scitrain’s approach included the following process:
Needs Analysis:
We interviewed internal SME’s, conducted focus groups and completed a competency sort.
Design:
Skill-based training content and simulation-based exercises using a business case.
Implementation:
Participants received training on core topics followed by individual simulations. They were observed by internal leaders and given feedback based on the competency model.
Feedback from Participants:
“The “classwork” was extremely valuable. First, it channeled our focus. You didn’t present too many topics. The simulations reinforced it well. I was able to draw off of that content in my simulations but was also able to draw similarities to my real-life interactions with customers, co-workers, and loved ones.”
“Definitely special and positive! The direct applicability and opportunity to practice in a very real-world simulation was incredibly valuable.”
“This is coaching and feedback I personally have been missing for many years. I would assume this statement is true for many other strategic contributors as well. It’s common for me to hear “you’re doing great”, but rarely do I hear critical feedback or areas of improvement. And I’ve actually found as I’ve been working at higher and higher layers in the organization, that critical feedback becomes even rarer. This is great!”
Feedback from Internal Stakeholder:
“Wow! I hope you all have given yourselves a pat on the back because you KILLED IT!!!! The most successful pilot I’ve been part of.”