The Importance of Performance Analysis

Most training fails for one simple reason:
We start designing BEFORE we understand the problem.

I think of it like a blueprint for a home: We are so excited to begin, and have many ideas to provide a product that is ideal for learners.

However, when we haphazardly complete a performance analysis: We cannot understand the scope and specifics behind the performance problem. Then, we risk building training that is engaging but does not solve the REAL problem.

Before designing any learning experience, I like to ask a few key questions:

• What does successful performance look like?
• What performance gap are we trying to close?
• What is preventing employees from acquiring those skills today?
• Is training truly the best solution?

To explore this idea further, I studied the statistics of current online learning experiences, and constructed an infographic on the impacts of NOT identifying the performance problem. View the infographic below.

This step can make the difference between building content and creating real impact.

Sources

Academy of Business Training. (n.d.). Why training fails. Academy of Business Training. https://academyofbusinesstraining.com/why-training-fails/ 

Brawley, D. (2007). When training costs too much and is not enough. Journal of Practical Consulting, 2(1).

Brinkerhoff, R. O., & Apking, A. M. (2001). High impact learning: Strategies for leveraging business results from training investments. Basic Books.

Brinkerhoff, R. O. (2006). Telling training’s story: Evaluation made simple, credible, and effective. Berrett-Koehler.

Elfond, G. (2025, April 28). Performance-based learning: The solution to ineffective training. eLearning Industry. https://elearningindustry.com/performance-based-learning-solution-ineffective-training 

Garr, S. S. (2015). High-impact talent management: Trends and practices. Bersin by Deloitte.

Kirkpatrick, D. L., & Kirkpatrick, J. D. (2006). Evaluating training programs: The four levels (3rd ed.). Berrett-Koehler. 

Weingarten, E. (2023, July 20). The training effectiveness gap. ATD. https://www.td.org/content/atd-blog/the-training-effectiveness-gap 

Thank you for joining me today! Let’s keep learning altogether, as lifelong #LearningMatters.

Best,
Laura Lawson
LearningMatters, LLC
Instructional Designer