Learning and development

Learning and development, a subset of HR, aims to improve group and individual performance by increasing and honing skills and knowledge. Learning and development, often called training and development, forms part of an organisation’s talent management strategy and is designed to align group and individual goals and performance with the organisation’s overall vision and goals.

On a practical level, individuals responsible for talent development must identify skills gaps among groups and teams (often through SMART objectives, one-to-one interviews and performance appraisals) and then finding suitable training to fill these gaps.

Procurement is an important part of the training and development process because training providers must be cost-effective and appropriate for the organisation’s needs. Good training provides individuals with tools and skills and shows them how to apply these new tools and skills within their own organisation and role.