Training and Development
Introduction
Training and development is a major function of the department of human resource. Training refers to the systematic platform were employees are instructed and taught matters of technical knowledge which is related to their work. In the improvement of organizational efficiency, employees are trained on how to perform particular roles or use specific machines. On the other hand, development refers to the educational growth and overall holistic maturity of people within managerial positions. This essay examines the advantage and disadvantages of having to contract with Aptara for any organization looking to training and the development of its employees.
Aptara Inc. is a United States-based media company specializing in the development of digital content. The services provided by Aptara include eLearning and technology development, editorial services, digital publishing, and content production. Aptara provides corporate learning and performance to drive better performance of the organization. Aptara claims to blend in best-in-class solutions of learning with flexible resourcing models and innovative technology; thus, meeting the performance initiatives of the organization quickly and measurably. Therefore it might be said that Aptara engages in outside training for organizations, and this has several advantages and disadvantages.
Pros
Outside trainers and professional consultants usually have stronger training and teaching skills better than the managers or supervisors within the organization. For instance, Aptara uses gamification, interactive labs, social learning portals, and scenario-based simulations. Being that Aptara specializes in employee training, they are therefore up to date with the latest technology and techniques that can be used in training.
An outside trainer may not be well versed in the particular operation of a company. However, before the beginning of training sessions, he will spend some time with the company; this might be for several days or weeks, depending on the training level required. Outside trainers like Aptara may provide valuable insight into areas that need improvement and areas that have more opportunities.
Cons
External training is costlier compared to internal training. Companies like Aptara charge according to the number of trainees when conducting their practice. If training is conducted outside the organization’s premises, then it is bound to be more costly as the venue has to be factored in. Moreover, training of employees out of the organizational premises is bound to bring work to a halt because they would not be able to continue with their normal work procedures. Thus this could lead to loss of productivity, time, and labor costs.
As much as Aptara’s training program appears appealing, it is impossible to determine the effectiveness of their training until an organization experiences it.