Ep. 21 It's time for some real-talk on skills frameworks

The Product Design for Learning Podcast

Keywords

skills frameworks, performance improvement, learning and development, EdTech, agile learning, AI in education, stakeholder engagement, data analytics, organizational culture, continuous improvement

Summary

In this conversation, Greg Arthur and Phil Lord-David delve into the complexities of skills frameworks within the learning and development (L&D) sector. They discuss the importance of starting with business outcomes rather than merely mapping skills to roles, the pitfalls of traditional frameworks, and the need for agility and iteration in skills development. Phil emphasizes the significance of understanding the real problems within organizations and the role of technology, particularly AI, in enhancing skills frameworks. The discussion also touches on the cultural context of skills, the separation of skills from performance, and practical steps for building effective skills frameworks.

Takeaways

Starting with the right questions is crucial for success.

Focus on business outcomes rather than just skills mapping.

Agility and iteration are key in skills development.

Understand the real problems employees face.

Technology should enable insight, not just track completions.

Skills frameworks should evolve over time.

Engage with senior leadership to align on goals.

AI can help make skills development more manageable.

Don't let perfection hinder progress.

Start small and build momentum.

Titles

Rethinking Skills Frameworks

The Agility of Learning and Development

Sound bites

"Start where it hurts."

"Tech is to enable insight."

"Don't go into analysis paralysis."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Skills Frameworks

02:38 The Right Questions for Skills Frameworks

05:32 Rethinking Frameworks: Beyond Monstrous Spreadsheets

08:37 The Cost of Delay in Skills Development

11:13 Identifying Key Skills: Where to Start

14:13 The Relationship Between Skills and Performance

16:58 Cultural Issues vs. Skills Issues

20:02 The Role of Technology in Skills Development

22:49 Iterative Approaches to Skills Frameworks

25:54 Engaging Stakeholders in Skills Development

28:36 Conclusion: Building a Dynamic Skills Framework

31:16 Rethinking Skill Gaps and Business Outcomes

33:35 The Role of AI in Skills Frameworks

37:11 Essential Skills for Building a Skills Framework

39:48 Navigating Resistance and Building Resilience

43:44 Technology's Role in Learning and Development

49:21 The Impact of AI on Skills Frameworks

54:45 Actionable Advice for Implementing Skills Frameworks