The Background Assessment is the first step in the establishment of a training and development Program. It is used as the foundation for determining Training objectives, the selection and design of training programs, the implementation of the programs and the evaluation of the training provided. These processes form a continuous cycle that always begins with a needs assessment.

Once the background assessment is completed and training objectives are clearly identified, the Design Phase of the training program and development process is initiated:

• Select the internal or external resources to design and develop the training.
• Select and design the program content.
• Select the techniques used to facilitate learning (lecture, role play, simulation)
• Select the appropriate setting (Classroom, Remote, On the job)
• Select the materials to be used in delivering the training (workbooks, videos)
• Identify and Equip instructors (if internal)

After completing the design phase, the training is ready to move on to the Implementation Phase:

• Schedule classes, facilities, and participants.
• Schedule instructors to teach.
• Prepare materials and deliver them to scheduled locations.
• Conduct the training.

The final phase in the training and development program is Evaluation of the program to determine whether the training objectives were met. The evaluation process includes determining participant reaction to the training program, how much participants learned and how well the participants transfer the training back on the job. The information gathered from the training evaluation is then included in the next cycle of training needs assessment.