Personalized Learning at Scale for IBM
Learn how ETU helped IBM Consulting to digitize its core consulting training with dynamically personalized learning tracks, reaching 20x more learners.
Digital Transformation in Training with IBM Consulting & ETU
Company: IBM Consulting
Objective: Expand the learning program from 5,000 to 100,000 consultants, heightening engagement and validating enhancement in core consulting skills.
Strategy: Incorporate diagnostic simulations for personalized learning tracks and development simulations for immersive skill practice.
Outcomes:
- Achieving a 20x growth in learners, from 5,000 to an anticipated 100,000.
- Saving $5.6 million in costs from the preliminary 45,000 learners’ rollout.
- Predicted savings of $13 million in seat time as the program expands to 100,000.
- Received an 81 Net Promoter Score for immersive training experiences.
OBSTACLES
Scaling Learning without Skyrocketing Costs
Before the pandemic, IBM’s training mostly occurred in physical classrooms – costly due to travel and venue expenses. Limited to a maximum of 5,000 consultants annually, the push for digitalization made IBM seek a holistic transformation towards a personalized and impactful learning approach.
IBM’s focus shifted from mere knowledge acquisition to actionable skills application. While technical proficiency was essential, mastering consulting and client engagement (termed “power skills”) became the spotlight to enhance client experiences.
METHODOLOGY
Enhanced, Efficient, Engaging Learning Journey
ETU processed 140 hours of training content provided by IBM, devising a comprehensive design and rollout plan.
Every learning module now begins with a diagnostic simulation, leading learners either out or into an adaptive learning journey. Based on simulation results, learners are guided to areas they’re deficient in, ensuring focus only on necessary content. Development simulations further offer intensive skill development tailored to each track.
IBM and ETU co-developed over 40 simulations, fostering:
- Effective and scalable skill enhancement.
- Real-world skill application scenarios.
- Learner-driven experiences.
- Immediate, relevant coaching feedback.
- A safe environment for practice.
OUTCOMES
Mass Personalization Streamlines Learning
IBM’s newly digitalized core consulting training has shown immense promise, prompting an upgraded target of 100,000 learners within 30 months post-launch.
Key Results:
- A 20x surge in participation via the modernized learning platform.
- Savings of $5.6 million in program expenses.
- A 27% reduction in seat time due to personalized learning.
- An impressive 81 NPS for the training experience.
The simulations vividly showcase skill improvement, with some areas noting a 50% growth. Aggregated skill data from the program provides insights into areas for further enhancement, focusing on skills that lag behind.
Furthermore, the program’s digital nature democratizes learning access, allowing various roles from Manager to Director to benefit based on individual skill requirements.
Read more about this case study on personalized learning at scale for IBM over on the ETU website.
