In the latest instalment of our HR executive interview series, we sat down with Mandeep Kullar, Learning Technology Consultant at Virtual College, to talk about his company, industry issues, careers advice and TV box sets…
Tell us about your company, products and services.
We have been designing and delivering digital learning solutions for over 24 years. Working on some of the largest digital training transformation programmes in the UK and overseas, our learner focused approach means we create learning solutions which allow people, organisations, and communities to succeed. From ready-to-go courses to large-scale training programmes, the content we develop is underpinned by the latest learning technology and real-world training expertise.
What have been the biggest challenges the L&D industry has faced over the past 12 months?
Organisations are rapidly changing, and it is up to L&D teams to stay ahead of the curve and be pro-active to the changing needs in an agile way, so building capability within L&D teams is a big one. It is also becoming increasingly important for L&D teams to measure impact and not only show ROI, but also be able to build a culture of continuous improvement amongst staff, so L&D teams really need to ensure they are better aligned with the business strategy. This leads really well into another challenge, which is around gaining buy-in from senior leadership teams to help drive the cultural shifts required.
And what have been the biggest opportunities?
Dealing with the real buzz around ‘digital transformation’ and what that means for L&D. Digital transformation is a challenge for organisations as some do not know where to start – with many organisations putting a bigger emphasis on updating technology over developing their people, but for L&D teams this is an excellent opportunity to make a difference. L&D teams need to gain buy-in for individuals and educate staff to use the tools available to not only aid in their development, but also make their jobs easier.
What technology is going to have the biggest impact on the market this coming year?
There is an abundance of exciting new technologies to explore in the ever-changing L&D industry. Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality and Artificial Intelligence are the main ones and are opening new ways for L&D professionals to do their jobs. What’s important to remember is that L&D teams needs to adapt to take advantage of these emerging technologies and implement them into their learning strategies so individuals can begin to change, grow and transform – which is great!
What’s the most exciting thing about your job?
L&D is a diverse and innovative industry. Every day is different and seeing our ground-breaking solutions come to life is great!
And what’s the most challenging?
Working to maximise available budgets whilst ensuring we create content solutions to meet key objectives and outcomes.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
People want you to listen – not to talk.
Baptiste or Game of Thrones?
Silly question – Baptiste all day long.
