Event-based measurement of learning in projects: A methodology

Measuring learning is problematic and there is an apparent lack of research establishing methods of capturing the benefits of learning which may accrue in project based environments. This paper reports on the ongoing findings of longitudinal case study research to explore how learning can be measured. A new approach to measuring learning is being piloted in an infrastructure support services organisation. The focus of the research is on a large scale IT-led business transformation project. A key objective of the approach is to create a learning culture in the project implementation teams that incorporates the measurement of benefits. The case study reveals that there is difficulty in communicating the complex concepts surrounding learning and its measurement. This can be overcome, however, by carefully explaining the benefits of the approach being proposed. The basis of the approach currently being developed is to adapt existing project lifecycle reviews in order to create time and space for reflective learning. The process will be progressively reviewed and evaluated and if it proves to be successful, the aim is for the approach to be adapted for wider implementation on projects across the whole business.