The Truth about Measuring Impact with Kevin M. Yates, the L&D Detective
In a recent episode of the Talent Development Think Tank, Kevin M. Yates and I explore one of the most sought-after topics in the learning and development field: measuring impact.
Kevin M. Yates, known as the L&D Detective, shares his unique insights about this complex subject.
Thanks to our sponsor, Learnit, you can get a free 45-day trial to help your people build more skills that drive success Learn more.
Below are actionable insights to help you better measure the impact of your talent development initiatives, and secure a strategic position for learning and development (L&D) within your organization.
Understand the Concept of Impact
Kevin emphasizes redefining impact as "collective contributions within the workplace ecosystem that work towards empowering business goals." Start by understanding how different functions within your company contribute collectively to your overall performance goals. Remember that training is just one part of the ecosystem.
Integrate Business Metrics
To credibly measure impact, use business metrics as your primary indicators. Rather than relying solely on traditional survey data or LMS reports, align your measurement strategies with core business performance metrics such as revenue growth, cost savings, or efficiency improvements. This alignment not only illustrates the direct effects of your training programs but also speaks the language of the C-suite.
Embrace Performance Consulting
Develop a performance consulting mindset within your L&D teams. This involves evaluating whether the performance gap truly requires training or whether another intervention would be more appropriate. Use tools like the Workplace Performance Investigation Framework, as suggested by Yates, to systematically analyze performance issues before funneling resources into new training programs.
Communicate the Collective Impact
Kevin advises against isolating the outcome of L&D initiatives. Instead, aim to demonstrate how L&D functions collectively with other business segments to foster organizational growth. Present these holistic impact contributions clearly to management to emphasize the indispensable role L&D plays within the broader business context.
Leverage AI as an Investigation Assistant
In his newly updated L&D Detective Kit, Kevin introduces methods of employing artificial intelligence (AI) as an assistant for impact measurement. Use AI for data analysis and pattern recognition to expedite your investigations into impact, but remain cautious of its limitations.
Maintain Focus on Both Movement and Maintenance of Performance
Kevin points out that while moving the needle on performance is crucial, maintaining high levels of performance is equally important. Develop training programs that not only address deficiencies but also support ongoing excellence.
Facilitate Leadership Dialogue
Engage leadership in regular discussions centered around impact measurement and collective contributions. Use business-metric-oriented results to engage in meaningful conversations with stakeholders and get their buy-in for L&D initiatives.
Measuring the impact of learning and development requires a nuanced approach, grounded in reality and tailored to your organization's unique goals. By adopting an informed perspective and leveraging the expertise shared by Kevin M. Yates, you'll be better equipped to demonstrate the true value of L&D in driving organizational success.
Be sure to listen to the full episode on the Talent Development Think Tank Podcast!
Kevin is the L&D Detective®, solving one of the most perplexing mysteries in learning and development: How do we measure impact? With a method rooted in facts, clues, and evidence, he investigates training and learning as an experience and L&D as a function’s contribution to the workplace performance ecosystem. Through actionable methods, he empowers clients to go beyond traditional measurement and implement practices that are credible, reliable, and honest.
As a global speaker and advisor, Kevin inspires audiences and guides clients toward practical solutions for measuring learning’s contribution. From keynote presentations to workshops, his approach is designed to engage, inform, and deliver immediate value.
Beyond his work in learning and development, Kevin is the founder and leader of 𝗠𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit filling the food gap with nourishment and dignity in Chicagoland’s south suburbs. Providing provide free, fresh, healthy, and high-quality groceries for those in need. Whether on a global stage, helping clients, or helping people who need food, Kevins mission remains the same: to make an impact in the learning and development community and communities struggling with food insecurity.
Listen to the podcast episode here:
