Learning Networks
Network Activities
In general each individual Skillnet carries out the following fundamental tasks:
- Analyse the training and development needs of participants, identifying skills requirements and priorities for action
- Assess the strategic importance of long-term competitiveness of the skills identified
- Identify solutions/delivery mechanisms to meet those needs
- Develop network structures and processes to establish the operation of the network as a basis for specified training activity
- Organise the delivery and implementation of training measures
- Promote collaboration and co-operative activity, sharing of knowledge and the exchange of best practice
- Monitor and measure results, providing performance indicators and quality standards for training activity engaged in by firms
- Feedback to Skillnets on the progress,
outcomes and impact of network training activities and processes
Companies across the 90 Training Networks between 1999 - 2005 found that training in the network context was:
- More cost efficient as they have better buying power, as well as Skillnets funding
- More relevant as the companies can commission training that is suited exactly to member needs
- More flexible as training is delivered at times that suit the company
- More accessible as training is provided locally either near the company or at company sites
- More informed as companies learn from, and support, one another in the process
- Better facilitated as companies have full time management staff to organise network training and other activities on their behalf
- More useful to the companies as the training that is developed is directly aligned to the companies needs and strategies
- More suited to enterprise needs as companies themselves decide all aspects of the network's strategy, plans and activities
- More beneficial as companies in the network receive new information, share ideas, develop new relationships with their peers in other companies and tap into a wide range of business opportunities that arise from being part of an inter-firm network.