In a recent podcast, ETU CEO Phill Miller and former GP Strategies CEO Adam Stedham discussed the dynamic evolution of learning and development (L&D) over the past two decades. Adam, with 25+ years in the space, highlighted how L&D has moved beyond basic skills-based training and compliance to focus on developing comprehensive competencies and nurturing well-rounded employees capable of navigating constant change.

A significant shift has been the need for contextualization in a globalized world. As companies expanded internationally, the challenge emerged to balance corporate training governance with local relevance. This "tug of war" between centralized control and localized needs became a defining characteristic of L&D, particularly concerning soft skills.

While hard skills like equipment repair remain consistent globally, soft skills – such as effective leadership or client interaction – require nuanced adaptation to diverse cultural norms and geographies for true success. Companies excelling in this area have a clear understanding of the behaviors that drive success in their industry and can effectively contextualize them.

Looking ahead, Artificial Intelligence is poised to reshape L&D. Adam identified three key aspects:

• Task-based AI: Employees will need training to leverage AI for enhanced productivity.
• ERP-like Change: AI implementations will trigger a massive re-learning effort across organizations, similar to the widespread adoption of ERP systems.
• Agentic AI: The emergence of AI agents that learn alongside individuals could fundamentally alter career paths, requiring entirely new forms of L&D.

For smaller to mid-sized businesses, their agility offers an advantage. They can more easily identify and focus L&D efforts on differentiating competencies that drive high performance. A critical mistake organizations often make, according to Stedham, is over-investing in initiatives with an overestimated shelf life, leading to wasted resources and a lack of agility.

The current environment demands continuous, evolving L&D rather than large, one-time projects. The accelerating pace of change, particularly with AI, shortens the window of clarity, emphasizing the importance of uniquely human soft skills like creativity and interpersonal relationships.

Want to see how ETU fits into this?

Visit our Sample a Simulation page that showcase the power of immersive learning to see the learner experience in action, or contact us for an informal discussion about your immersive learning goals.