Training design and transfer: contributions of Six Sigma

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to bring together the concepts of Six Sigma into the process of training design and training transfer.

Design/methodology/approach

The concepts of the paper are supported with an actual example of their application to practice. The industrial example shows where the inclusion of the concepts of Six Sigma can make positive contributions to the design and transfer of training processes.

Findings

The application of the concepts to training design and transfer showed a positive contribution through a more structured process. Including the concepts of Six Sigma within the process of training design and transfer will provide the organization with additional support and structure to improve the overall success of the training design process, and improve the impact and effectiveness of the training itself.

Research limitations/implications

The single example of application may limit the successfulness of the overall concept to training design overall. Based on the successful application in one industrial training setting, the impression that the concepts will adequately translate to additional applications is favorable.

Practical implications

The success of the application shown in this paper suggests that further success is likely in other similar industrial applications. Expanding the application to other job training design processes should improve the overall process of training design in other areas and industries.

Originality/value

Training design and transfer are critical components to all areas of an organization that conducts any type of training. Application of these and other improvement methods and tools will improve the overall performance of the training process and the effectiveness of the training.

Citation

Chow, A.F., Gillespie Finney, T. and Woodford, K.C. (2010), "Training design and transfer: contributions of Six Sigma", International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, Vol. 59 No. 7, pp. 624-640. https://doi.org/10.1108/17410401011075639