How do you support training needs analysis with online platforms?

1 Data collection

One of the main benefits of online platforms is that they enable you to collect data from various sources and methods, such as surveys, quizzes, tests, interviews, observations, feedback, or performance indicators. You can use online tools to create and distribute your data collection instruments, and to store and analyze the results. For example, you can use Google Forms to create surveys or quizzes, Zoom or Skype to conduct interviews, or Google Analytics to track performance metrics. Online platforms can also help you reach a larger and more diverse sample of your target audience, and reduce the time and cost of data collection.

2 Data analysis

After collecting the data, you need to analyze it to identify the gaps between the current and desired state of your employees, teams, or organization. Online platforms can help you with data analysis by providing you with tools to organize, visualize, and interpret the data. For example, you can use Excel or Google Sheets to create tables, charts, or graphs, or use online software like SPSS or R to perform statistical analysis. Online platforms can also help you with data integration, which means combining data from different sources and methods to get a more comprehensive and accurate picture of your training needs.

3 Data interpretation

The next step is to interpret the data and draw conclusions about your training needs. Online platforms can support you with data interpretation by providing you with frameworks, models, or templates to guide your decision making. For example, you can use online resources like SWOT analysis, SMART goals, or ADDIE model to help you define your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats, goals, and strategies. Online platforms can also help you with data validation, which means checking the reliability and validity of your data and conclusions, and seeking feedback from stakeholders or experts.

4 Data presentation

The final step is to present your data and conclusions to your stakeholders, such as managers, clients, or learners. Online platforms can help you with data presentation by providing you with tools to create and deliver engaging and persuasive reports, proposals, or presentations. For example, you can use PowerPoint or Google Slides to create slides, Canva or Adobe Spark to create graphics, or Prezi or Animoto to create animations. Online platforms can also help you with data communication, which means sharing your data and conclusions with your stakeholders, and soliciting their input, approval, or support.

Online platforms can be a great ally for your TNA process, as they can help you collect, analyze, interpret, and present data more effectively and efficiently. However, online platforms are not a substitute for a sound TNA methodology, which requires careful planning, execution, and evaluation. Therefore, you should always consider the purpose, scope, and context of your TNA, and choose the online platforms that best suit your needs and goals.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?