Putting the Organization on a Digital Skills Transformation Roadmap:
A Conversation with Eric James to the Hybrid Learning Model

In a recent EdTech one-on-one session between Neeti Sharma, President & Co-Founder of TeamLease EdTech, and Eric James, HR Director, Learning, OD, Inclusion & Diversity from Flipkart, the focus was on the dynamic landscape of digital learning within a tech-driven organization. This insightful dialogue touched upon key aspects such as the integration of learning into the organizational DNA, the delicate balance between personalization and scalability, the measurement of ROI in learning initiatives, and the continuous learning roadmap for employees.

Learning as a strategic imperative

Eric began by emphasizing Flipkart's transition from merely offering digital solutions to integrating learning as a strategic imperative. He highlighted the shift towards maximizing learning for meaningful business outcomes. By aligning learning initiatives with the strategic goals set by business teams and the CEO, Flipkart seeks to solve real-world problems through various interventions.

The discussion highlighted the significance of visioning, future skill sets, and the deployment of digital learning at critical junctures in Flipkart's journey. Eric shed light on how the organization's culture, rooted in a 'doing' mentality, places practical experiences at the forefront of learning. This approach is reflected in the spaces created for reflection, generating insights that drive tangible changes within the organization. Watch the snippet to know more.

Learning as a way of life

Neeti raised an intriguing question about whether learning is a part of managers' and employees' goals or if it is ingrained as a way of life at Flipkart. Eric shared that while learning is not explicitly set as a goal for managers, it is indeed a way of life for the organization. He emphasized the importance of learning being seamlessly integrated into the workflow, becoming an intrinsic part of the company's DNA. Watch the snippet to know more.

Balancing personalization and scalability

The conversation then delved into the challenge of balancing personalization and scalability, particularly in an organization where employees may not all be digital natives. Eric explained Flipkart's approach to hyper-personalization, wherein learning programs are designed based on a deep study of specific problem statements. By creating spaces for participants to share their struggles and co-creating aspects of the learning design, Flipkart aims to strike a balance between personalization and broad-based learning. Watch the snippet to know more.

Measuring ROI on learning

The discussion transitioned to the crucial topic of measuring ROI on learning initiatives. Eric shared Flipkart's journey, detailing how the organization is in the process of moving from L2 to L4 on the Kirkpatrick model. He emphasized the importance of showcasing business outcomes and generating tangible results rather than focusing solely on metrics like coverage and participation rates. Watch the snippet to know more.

Data-driven learning interventions

Eric shed light on Flipkart's innovative use of data in learning interventions. Instead of relying on a closed system where data analysis occurs after the design phase, Flipkart uses data to identify spikes and patterns during and after interventions. This real-time approach allows the organization to adapt and tweak interventions based on their impact on business metrics, ensuring relevance and effectiveness.

Skill-based journey maps

Neeti probed into the existence of a continuous learning roadmap for employees. Eric unveils Flipkart's venture into skill-based journey mapping, emphasizing the need for relevance. The discussion revolves around adapting to industry shifts, such as Gen AI and web 3.0, and addressing specific challenges, like improving sales engineers' effectiveness through personalized learning. Eric explained the nuanced approach to evaluating the impact of skill-based learning. Recognition is not solely based on completing courses but hinges on applying acquired skills to enhance job effectiveness. The alignment with individual goals and organizational needs is underscored, revealing the intricate balance between personal growth and business requirements. Watch the snippet to know more.

Harnessing data for evaluation

The focus now shifted to the proficiency of L&D teams in handling data. Eric emphasized the importance of aligning language and understanding between business and tech teams. The emphasis was on not just grasping basic data skills but deciphering business language and deriving actionable insights. This dynamic shift in perspective ensures that teams ask the right questions, fostering a symbiotic relationship between data and business objectives. Watch the snippet to know more.

Upskilling teams

Neeti then steered the discussion towards upskilling teams. Eric outlined a multifaceted approach that included continuous learning, sharing, and practical application. He introduced the concept of a "curiosity group" where teams experiment and apply external learnings in the workplace. Eric shared an intriguing example involving the deployment of bots to track the transfer of learning, underlining the commitment to ensuring practical application of acquired skills.

L&D's role in digital transformation

Moving forward, the conversation shifted to the pivotal role of L&D in enhancing digital skills to drive transformation within organizations. Eric advocated for a deep understanding of business processes and key performance indicators, emphasizing the need for L&D to be strategic partners in achieving organizational goals. Neeti stressed the importance of L&D evolving into a supportive function, partnering with business units to facilitate growth. Watch the snippet to know more.

Advice for young startup founders

As the conversation neared its conclusion, Neeti sought Eric's advice for young startup founders. Eric, drawing from his entrepreneurial experiences, highlighted the significance of listening to teams, customers, and partners. He encouraged founders to create an open environment where voices are heard, preventing startups from shutting down due to isolation. Emphasizing the value of learning from others' experiences, Eric advised against being fixated on the original idea, urging founders to focus on the desired outcomes.

In the culmination of the discussion, both experts underscored the importance of collaboration, continuous learning, and seeking guidance in the journey of scaling startups. The insightful conversation provided a glimpse into the complexities and strategies involved in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of digital skills development and startup success. Watch the snippet to know more.