The Training Market

By way of context I've outlined some thoughts about the training industry below that might assist you in your thinking and decision-making.   By necessity these thoughts are generalisations, and by definition therefore, there are exceptions to each of these generalisations.   Having said that, I think it would be fair to say:

The large/global training providers

Potential advantages:

• Well researched, proven materials
• Well resourced
• Can create consistency of skills training throughout Australia- or world-wide offices
• Often happy to run larger groups which may convert to smaller per head costs

Potential disadvantages:

• Workshops may be somewhat 'generic' ie not tailored for the industry or organisation
• Large groups may not allow for much individual skills practice, feedback or coaching which may reduce learning and ongoing skills application
• Facilitator quality may vary
• Look out for hidden additional costs such as 'materials' that can substantially add to the per-head cost.

The medium sized training providers

Potential advantages:

• Ideally offer the perfect mix of sizable resources with the ability to be flexible and more tailored in their materials, formats and group sizes
• Can offer far greater consistency of quality facilitators and very personal relationships

Potential disadvantages:

• Lacking the resources of the very large providers means facilitators must juggle their roles of business management, new business development (to cover not insubstantial costs), product development/customisation, and customer service.   This can cause compromises if not managed well.
• To the best of my knowledge there are not a huge number of medium-sized training organisations in Australia ie 5-20 facilitators

The small / 1-person training providers

Potential advantages:

• Very personal service ensuring good relationships with both the organisation and individual participants.   The small/sole provider who doesn't achieve this won't be in business long!
• Excellent capacity to tailor materials and be flexible with formats
• May work with smaller groups offering a far higher level of individual feedback and coaching
• Smaller costs may equate to smaller fees

Potential disadvantages:

• May try to become too 'generalist', thereby not offering the higher quality that comes with specialisation
• Don't have the resources to offer either simultaneous projects, or good value on international training (eg without an Asian office, travel & accommodation costs would normally be met by the client)
• Limited back-up if primary trainer falls sick.