In 2008 eZine wrote an article for training managers and/or company stakeholders who were looking for ways to measure the effectiveness of their programmes, they provided the following ten metrics as a place to start. 

1. Increased retention 

2. Increased sales 

3. Increased operational efficiency 

4. Customer service results 

5. Company-defined scorecards 

6. Cost of training 

7. Return on Investment 

8. Revenue generation 

9. Instructor performance 

10. End-user satisfaction 

What has changed in 15 years?  

Measuring the effectiveness of training programs is still a challenging task, but with the advancements in technology and data analytics, it has become easier to track and measure the outcomes of training. Here are ten updated metrics that can help you measure the effectiveness of your training programs: 

1. Completion rate. This metric measures the percentage of learners who completed the training program. A high completion rate shows that learners are engaged and committed to the training, and that the training is relevant to their needs. 

2. Knowledge retention. Measuring the amount of knowledge learners retained after the training program is another important metric. You can measure knowledge retention through assessments, quizzes, or simulations. A higher knowledge retention rate indicates that learners are able to apply what they learned in the training program to their jobs. 

3. Performance improvement. This metric measures the extent to which learners’ job performance improved after the training program. It can be measured through key performance indicators (KPIs) or other objective metrics specific to the job. A higher performance improvement rate indicates that the training program was effective in addressing specific job-related issues. 

4. Time to proficiency. This metric measures how long it takes learners to reach proficiency in their jobs after completing the training program. A shorter time to proficiency indicates that the training program was effective in preparing learners for their job responsibilities. 

5. Engagement level. This metric measures the level of engagement of learners during the training program. It can be measured through surveys or feedback forms. A higher engagement level indicates that the training program was interesting and engaging for the learners. 

6. Manager satisfaction. This metric measures the satisfaction level of managers with the performance of their team members after the training program. A higher manager satisfaction level indicates that the training program was effective in improving the skills and knowledge of their team members. 

7. Learning transfer. This metric measures the extent to which learners apply what they learned in the training program to their job responsibilities. It can be measured through observations or feedback from supervisors. A higher learning transfer rate indicates that the training program was effective in teaching practical skills that learners can apply to their jobs. 

8. Return on investment (ROI). This metric measures the financial impact of the training program on the organisation. It can be calculated by comparing the costs of the training program to the financial benefits, such as increased sales or productivity. A higher ROI indicates that the training program was cost-effective and provided a significant return on investment. 

9. Employee satisfaction. This metric measures the satisfaction level of employees with the training program. It can be measured through surveys or feedback forms. A higher employee satisfaction level indicates that the training program was relevant, engaging, and useful for their job responsibilities. 

10. Employee retention. This metric measures the rate of employee retention after the training program. A higher retention rate indicates that the training program was effective in preparing employees for their job responsibilities and improving their job satisfaction. 

Remember to choose the metrics that are relevant to your organisation and training goals. These metrics can help you evaluate the effectiveness of your training programs and make data-driven decisions for future improvements.