Update from the Bottom Line Benefits Project
The main driver for this project was to review theoretical Return on Investment (ROI) evaluation models, and reflect on evaluation methodologies being used by a number of organisations. The report does not give instruction on how to implement a Return on Investment model but focuses on some of the wider background issues for consideration prior to implementing such a model.
Four relevant theoretical models were identified and outlined, each of which included the notion of ROI, business impact or accountability as a final stage of evaluation. Conducting interviews in four organisations then provided data on the use of evaluation models in practice.
A number of key themes were identified by this research: adapting recognised models to ensure a fit with an organisation’s own aims and goals; appropriate training in the use of the evaluation models for staff proficiency in ROI methodology; the importance of considering evaluation of bottom line benefits at both the business needs analysis stage and training needs analysis stage. ROI evaluation was not felt necessary for all training programmes and interestingly, some organisations were not, in fact, concerned with the financial ROI of training but only the change at behaviour level. Finally, applying ROI and bottom line benefit evaluation presented the ability to justify training and introduce accountability into the staff development process.
This study provides a body of information which can be used for initial consideration prior to devising an appropriate ROI system.
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