One of the most interesting segments of corporate learning is the custom program or content development space. At Training Industry, we monitor this segment to understand several key elements of the everchanging corporate learning space. This is the segment where we see new programs combining the latest innovations as they are applied to new learning initiatives. This is also where we see the latest thinking in concepts around the use of technology, length and make-up of programs, the evolving role of the instructor, and most importantly, the state of connection between business impact and the introduction of these programs.

In this segment of the market, it’s tempting to focus solely on the shiny things or the latest “gamified microlearning in the cloud.” While they may be excellent strategies for your program, we must be mindful to wait until we collect and understand the goals of the program and how to measure its impact on the business. Before you invest in building the “thing,” it deserves the thoughtful analysis on what you’re trying to accomplish. If we are razor focused on the intended outcome from the training, then we can integrate triggers for our measurement on the impact into the program. This little change can provide you with the data needed to justify the investment in the program, but also establish the kind of dialogue and credibility with your internal customers that you will need for the next “investment discussion.”

At Training Industry, we have been publishing the findings of our annual review of the top companies in custom content development for more than six years now, with our 2016 Top 20 Content Development Companies list publishing in May. These companies are selected based on a thorough review of a detailed submission they make to our selection committee. One of the key areas of focus in that review is innovation. This edition of Training Industry Magazine is a collection of perspectives from these top companies on what to consider when developing your next program or learning initiative.

This issue covers concepts from designing performer-centric learning systems to considerations for a mobile learning experience. We hope you will use this magazine to uncover a few ideas that can change or reinforce your thinking with regards to your content development initiatives. The quality of the perspectives shared in this issue should provide you with some direction that will make a lasting impact on the performance of your company.

As always, we would love to hear your thoughts on the point of views shared in the magazine.