Organisations worldwide aspire for operational excellence. A key initiative in achieving this is investing in upskilling the employees by training them through tailor-made programmes and eventually meeting the measured goals. The need for trained and adaptable employees is more relevant now than ever, as organisations seek employees who seamlessly adapt to technological advancements and process optimisations. As per the LinkedIn Workplace Learning Report 2025, a whopping 94% of employees are willing to remain at a company if the organisation invests in their career development.

Chief Operating Officers (COOs) and Heads of Human Resources (HR) can prioritise employee training along with OPEX projects, as it can be imperative for driving operational and business efficiency. A recent study by McKinsey found that financial institutions that employ OPEX projects saw an average gain in profits of 10%. This suggests that OPEX promotes improvements in efficiency, productivity, risk management, and innovation.

Understanding the Importance of Employee Training

Employee training surpasses elementary skill development; it is a strategic investment offering multifaceted benefits to employers and employees. Proper training equips employees with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform tasks more effectively, leading to streamlined operations and reduced errors. Consistent training in risk management, compliance, cybersecurity, and regulatory updates helps mitigate risks, ensure adherence to legal standards, and safeguard the organisation’s reputation and financial stability.

Organisations that invest in employee development help inculcate a culture of continuous learning, leading to higher job satisfaction and reduced attrition. This leads to well-trained employees who are better equipped with emerging technologies and can better understand customer needs, enhancing their satisfaction and loyalty.

Implementing Effective Training Programmes

To maximise the impact of training, organisations must adopt a comprehensive approach. After identifying the skill gaps and training requirements of the participants, the training team should customise training programs for the desired outcome. For outstation branches and offices, a blended learning approach that combines traditional classroom training with e-learning modules can be developed.

To introduce a spirit of continuous learning, training participants ought to be given certifications, and modules of cross-training must be made available to the employees. Establish Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that evaluate the effectiveness of training programmes and aid in achieving strategic goals.

However, to ensure the progression of successful operational excellence, COOs and Heads of HR must invest in employee training strategically rather than directly. By adopting a culture of innovation and continuous learning, employees can be better equipped to tackle operational complexities. Training and development interventions make the employees feel valued and appreciated and motivate them to contribute positively to business success.