How to Select a Training Vendor
When challenged with the responsibility to hire training vendors, understand there is much to be considered when outsourcing all or part of talent development programs. The vendor’s success or failure will extend beyond the organization’s ability to achieve its goals.
Vendor selection best practices include the following criteria for selecting a training vendor who will meet organizational needs.
- Clearly define the learning and performance objectives of the program or service
- Explain any technology requirements or issues that vendors must satisfy
- Define the training deliverables? (participant workbooks, assessments, evaluations, software, etc.)
- Invite key stakeholders in the organization to play a role in making the final selection, especially when the cost and/or risks are high
- Consider best fit of organizational culture with the training provider's
- Assess the financial stability of the training vendor
- Ask for references.
- Evaluate vendor's potential value. Not only must the vendor meet cost constraints, but you should determine the real long-term value of a quality training partnership.
- Consider hiring a vendor who can satisfy multiple training needs. It is much easier to select a vendor who can successfully integrate multiple development programs than having to hire separate providers for individual ones.
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