A Study of the Journey from Training to Performance

Abstract

This is an exploratory study questioning progress in the shift from training to performance. A total of 62 training and performance professionals responded to a survey administered at two professional conferences, ISPI (International Society for Performance Improvement) and ASTD (American Society for Training and Development). The survey, constructed by two people admittedly keen on performance technology, queried respondents about concepts relevant to performance perspectives: analysis, solution systems, cross-functionality, customer and collegial expectations, and shared knowledge. We also inquired about perceptions of how to move their organizations beyond the status quo. Overall, organizations report that they are making progress in the transition from an emphasis on training to the concepts associated with performance technology, although room for progress remains. Bedrock human performance technology (HPT) concepts, such as analysis-first, data-driven decisions about solutions and collaboration with colleagues across the organization, are reported to be more typical aspects of organizational culture. On the other hand, customer and colleague perceptions lag, and measurement and boundarylessness are only occasionally components of the organizations described by respondents.