Module 4 : Training and Development
The need to continuously keep abreast of changes in technology and have a workforce with marketable skills has made training a key focus area in the IT industry. In reality however, training levels in the industry were perhaps lower than desirable due to the pressure of meeting deadlines and the tremendous stresses attached with high growth. Training budgets as a percentage of sales turnover were under 2% and the average training days per annum was on an average around 6 days.
The focus of training was on technical training. Most companies had an induction training and had periodic skill upgradation training which was entirely linked to projects. A structured approach to training was undertaken by very few companies. TCS has been a leader in training in the industry. Several of the major companies like Infosys, Wipro, NIIT and Satyam have also set up internal training schools.
Technical training was typically focused on product training or application areas. Over the years training on languages has diminished since most employees had the requisite knowledge or often picked up on their own. Quality process training is another important area that many companies have focused on.
Behavioral training has gained in importance in the last three years as companies recognised its importance. Team building programs and inter personal skills training were the major areas. Communication and culture sensitivity training were also emphasised especially for staff required to spend time on site.
Technical training was generally conducted by in house trainers and was generally not in the purview of the HR function. Getting internal managers to spend time in training is a major issue for several companies and is often considered as a factor in individual evaluation. Behavioral training was however largely outsourced.
Training schools to develop an internal cadre of professionals is a major activity undertaken by most of the major companies. This has enabled them to develop training resources besides developing captive manpower sources.
Some of the companies have also worked closely with major engineering and management institutes to develop specific programs on project management and specific application areas. The IITs and IIM Bangalore have been some of the leading institutions that work closely with several IT companies. Many companies also work on a long term basis with individual faculty members.
