Running a Lean Learning Function

Make Lean Work for You
Kelly agrees lean learning organizations face obstacles related to structural fit within the enterprise. To work properly, it’s important to establish the best balance between ownership and collaboration, as well as between centralized and decentralized models.

“Obviously, a highly centralized deployment will give the learning function almost total control of the tools, systems and services,” he said. “It offers a one-stop URL for all users (even if they see a different landing screen, it’s the same repository behind that screen), which gives the training function the strategic leadership position as the broker for the audiences inside and outside the company.

“But we don’t really need — and can never truly achieve — control over all the content creation in the company anyway, so why strive for that mythical nirvana? Plus, the learning organization should have influential advocates in other departments that communicate with it frequently, so employees will have the educational support they need, when they need it.”

Kelly also said lean helps learning functions strike the right balance between centralized and siloed employee education programs. It encourages a “federated” arrangement, where all the learning needs are met based on the goals and priorities of the enterprise, not based on the group with the most funding or the squeakiest wheel.