Aligning learning to strategic priorities: a discussion paper

The CIPD Value of Learning project, recently completed, has stimulated a high level of interest among learning and training professionals who have recognised the need for a fresh look at evaluation. A key part of this reassessment is the need to focus on the alignment between learning interventions and organisational strategy. Alignment is a complex and difficult area for learning and development, however, and the CIPD recognises that many practitioners would value the opportunity to further develop their thinking and practice about this challenging issue.

This discussion paper aims to stimulate and encourage debate about the challenges of achieving alignment. It will consider the following questions:

    

• What is involved with alignment?
  
• How can we know that learning is aligned with organisational priorities?
  
• How does the ‘business partner’ role affect alignment?
  
• How can alignment processes be established and maintained?

An interactive tool offers practical guidance on this topic.

Published November 2007.