Temporal Effects of Employee Training: A Dynamic and Multilevel Perspective

Abstract

This conceptual study introduces a framework and tool for gauging temporal effects of employee training. It proposes a set of lag factors (causing lag effects of training) and a set of sustenance factors (influencing the duration of training effects). It also distinguishes different types of training effect on the performance trajectory, which link differentially to the various lag and sustenance factors. Thus, managers may use the framework to gauge temporal effects of training by considering what types of effect the training is likely to have and, based on that, which lag and sustenance factors are likely to apply. The study adopts a unique dynamic perspective, suggesting that temporal effects of training must be assessed in terms of effects on ongoing learning and performance trajectories of employees. Also assuming a multilevel perspective, it is argued that employee-level performance improvement effects may result either in performance improvement effects (first- or second-order change effects) or in performance sustenance effects at the organizational level (preempting unintended first- or second-order change)--with implications for the timing of training effects.