What does it take to build a workforce capable of executing complex projects and thriving in an ever-evolving business environment? For Larsen & Toubro (L&T), the answer lies in leveraging artificial intelligence to create a robust learning ecosystem. With its AI-driven programme, the strategic plan 26, L&T has redefined upskilling and reskilling, aligning its learning strategy with organisational goals to build a future-ready workforce.

As part of The Skill Shift series—a collection of transformative learning stories curated by Skillsoft and People Matters—we explore how L&T’s collaboration with Skillsoft has revolutionised corporate learning, ensuring employees are equipped to meet current and future business demands.

Strategic Vision: Empowering Growth Through Learning

In today’s fast-paced world, success hinges on adapting and innovating. L&T recognised that achieving its strategic vision, the strategic plan 26, required embedding learning into the company’s core. With a focus on upskilling employees for emerging opportunities and reskilling them for current roles, L&T adopted a forward-thinking approach to workforce development.

“Upskilling and reskilling are essential enablers of our strategic plan. By leveraging AI tools within our digital learning engine, we’ve aligned our learning goals with the company’s broader business strategy,” shared MVN Rao, Head - Corporate Learning and Development, L&T.

This commitment to learning led to integration of advanced AI-driven tools and a partnership with Skillsoft, positioning L&T as a leader in adopting innovative approaches to employee development.

To bring its vision to life, L&T implemented key AI-powered initiatives that address critical areas of talent development.

AI-Enabled Skill Benchmarking: Personalised Learning at Scale

One of the standout features of L&T’s programme is the skill benchmarking tool (powered by Skillsoft), which allows employees to evaluate their current skill levels and receive targeted recommendations for improvement. The AI recommendation engine provides customised learning paths, ensuring employees can address their specific development needs efficiently.

“This tool empowers employees to identify where they stand and access tailored resources to enhance their skills,” explained MVN Rao.

Practicing Complex Interactions Safely through Innovative Tools

Managing people is an essential skill, yet one often learned through trial and error. To address this, L&T introduced Skillsoft's Conversation AI Simulator (CAISYTM), which allows employees to practise communication scenarios in a safe environment. With over 70 simulated scenarios, this tool helps mid-level and senior leaders refine their leadership and interpersonal skills.

“There’s no school that teaches people management, but the simulator has provided our employees with a practical and engaging way to develop these skills,” said Rao. “The response from mid-level employees has been particularly encouraging.”

Empowering 63,000 Employees with Comprehensive Learning Initiatives

L&T’s digital learning engine, ATL, supports 63,000 employees across the organisation, addressing areas such as:

• Compliance Training: Ensuring employees meet mandatory standards.
• Leadership Development: Focusing on behavioural and people management skills.
• Digital Skills: Preparing employees for the demands of a technology-driven workplace.
• Role-Specific Competencies: Building expertise relevant to specific functions.

This holistic approach ensures that employees are equipped to excel in their current roles while preparing for future opportunities.

The Role of Strategic Partnership

L&T’s partnership with Skillsoft has been central to the success of its learning initiatives. Skillsoft’s expertise and tools (Skill Benchmarking and CAISYTM) have enabled L&T to create a seamless learning experience that aligns with its business objectives.

“Skillsoft’s AI-driven tools and tailored support have been invaluable,” shared Rao. “Their understanding of our needs and ability to contextualise solutions for our workforce have strengthened our programme.”

This collaboration has delivered a comprehensive learning experience, blending advanced technology with practical implementation strategies.

Quantifying the Impact of the Initiatives

Impactful learning initiatives require clear metrics, and L&T has seen tangible results across multiple dimensions:

• Learning Hours: Over 520,000 learning hours logged in the past year.
• Skill Proficiency: A 50% improvement in skill benchmarks across several areas.
• Employee Engagement: Increased participation from mid-level employees, driven by tools like the CAISYTM.
• Completion Rates: High completion rates for digital learning modules reflect strong engagement.

Qualitatively, L&T has observed a cultural shift, with digital learning becoming deeply embedded in the organisation’s ethos.

Realising Organisational Goals Through the Partnership

For L&T, the true measure of success lies in its ability to execute complex projects effectively. The learning programme’s decentralised approach ensures employees across diverse locations can access resources in the flow of work, enabling productivity and efficiency.

“This initiative supports our business goals by ensuring employees have the right skills at the right time,” said MVN Rao. “It’s not just about numbers—it’s about empowering people to perform better and achieve more.”

A Partnership for Future Learning Goals

L&T’s journey with the strategic plan 26 exemplifies the power of strategic collaboration and innovation in learning. By leveraging AI-driven tools and fostering a culture of continuous development, the organisation has positioned itself as a leader in workforce transformation.

“Our partnership with Skillsoft has been a game-changer,” concluded MVN Rao. “Together, we have created a learning ecosystem that not only addresses today’s challenges but prepares our workforce for the future.”

Check out the ‘Skill Shift’ series to learn more about transformative learning strategies helping companies bridge the skills gap and drive business impact.

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