Case study - Global Drinks Supplier (GDS)

Business need

This GDS recognised that in order for the Learning and Development team to be more effective they needed less time delivering training and more time focussing on how the learning that takes place on courses is subsequently applied in the workplace. Their vision was to allow the Learning and Development specialists within the organisation to have a more strategic role. To this end the GDS decided to outsource a discrete set of three interpersonal skills interventions (Presentation Skills, Influencing Skills and Facilitation Skills). They would also use this opportunity to review these programmes to ensure that they were cutting edge. In order to source an economical solution, the GDS was also seeking to work with a supplier with a geographical reach over London, Scotland and Ireland.

MaST solution

MaST worked closely with the GDS to audit their current provision in these areas. Bringing together information within the GDS, using methods such as interviews, telephone research and course documentation with MaST’s experience and expertise, MaST and the GDS agreed some changes to ensure that the courses reflected best practice. After the pilot and further review the courses were offered widely within the GDS.

The GDS and MaST also devised a clear set of service level agreements in order to define the relationship between the two organisations and work within transparent expectations. This includes areas such as management information, following up participants and the profile of the MaST team matching closely with the GDS team.

Outcome

This GDS is now has an updated, robust offering in Presentation Skills, Influencing Skills and Facilitation Skills. GDS confidently leaves the delivery of these programmes to MaST while their own Learning and Development specialists focus on the results of training, application of learning and strategic business issues.

The relationship between the GDS and MaST is fruitful. Clear expectations and SLAs have allowed freedom for both organisations to contribute creatively to both the relationship and the Learning and Development team’s aims and objectives.