Best Practices for Engaging Stakeholders When Implementing a Digital Learning Program

Whether you’re an official project manager or you’re responsible for a training and development initiative at your law firm, you’ve got a lot on your plate.  

The creation and subsequent launch of a new digital learning series or training program involves more than a simple checklist of tasks; it requires orchestrating and interacting with a symphony of stakeholders and subject matter experts (SMEs) across a range of departments – each with their own objectives and expectations for the project.  

So, how can you create buy-in from these essential players, ultimately ensuring your project is completed on time, within budget, and exceeds everyone’s expectations? This blog post delves into some of the best practices drawn from our extensive experience collaborating with law firms and their clients on launching digital learning initiatives. 

1. Clearly Convey the Value of the Project  
   
   The first major step in launching your new digital learning or training program should be articulating the significance of this project and its corresponding value to each stakeholder group. Chances are your team of stakeholders are juggling many other projects and priorities in addition to this one. Your role is to build a shared understanding and make it easy for them to see how this project will add value – whether it’s for the firm as a whole, their department, or even for them specifically. Showcase tangible benefits, for example by implementing on-demand training it will save the time and resources previously spent on in-person sessions, benefitting everyone involved. Now that’s a win-win! 
   
   When stakeholders clearly understand the value of the program and what they stand to gain, they are more likely to remain supportive and may even become advocates for the initiative along the way. Having these types of champions helps ensure your project moves forward more efficiently and receives increased visibility throughout the firm.  
   

2. Set Expectations for Roles and Timing 
   
   Structured approval processes and clearly communicated timelines help facilitate timely review and sign-off on project milestones. 
   
   When drafting timelines, be realistic and ensure there’s an opportunity for SMEs and Stakeholders to ask questions and provide feedback. For example, a SME with a full client load may need more time to provide input compared to an individual fully dedicated to training and development. It’s important to plan accordingly because when milestones are achievable, it helps maintain engagement, timeliness, and momentum throughout the project.  
   
   Along with timing, make sure everyone understands the project’s overarching goals and scope, including the target audience, learning outcomes, and any specific requirements or constraints. Lastly, help each person understand their role. Are they a decision-maker? Idea generator? Content contributor? When everyone knows what’s expected of them, it reduces the likelihood of roadblocks and minimizes rework and revisions later in the process. The “RACI” framework can be a helpful tool to assign responsibilities effectively. 
   
   This information is often communicated on a project “kick-off” meeting or call that gathers all the relevant parties and sets the tone for the project. If you’re working with a digital learning partner, make sure they’re included in the meeting to confirm they have a clear understanding of the project – and that you know what to expect from them throughout the process. 
   

3. Create and Follow a Communications Plan 
   
   Considering the project’s complexities as well as the preferences of your SMEs and stakeholders, create a plan for when and how you’ll communicate effectively.  
   
   Depending on the project, you may want to send a weekly progress update, host regular check-in calls, or taking a  more agile approach by reaching out as needed. Wherever you land, the key is sharing the plan consistently to keep everyone aligned and informed. If you notice the process is slowing down or certain people don’t have all the necessary information, you might consider more frequent, targeted communications. Don’t be afraid to pivot as needed. 
   

4. Plan for What Comes Next 
   
   After implementation, breathe in a sigh of relief – you deserve it! But don’t stop there. Solicit feedback from your SMEs and stakeholders to  reflect on how things went from their perspective. What went well? What could have gone better? How engaged and informed did they feel throughout the process? How do they feel about the final deliverable? 
   
   Even if you don’t work with the same people again, you’re sure to gain valuable insight you can apply to a range of future projects. It’s also a nice touch to express your appreciation for their contributions one last time.  
   

5. Lean on Your Digital Learning Provider  
   
   As a premier digital learning provider serving leading law firms around the world, we’re familiar with the challenges you face in moving a project from approval to implementation.  When you partner with SkillBurst, you’re assigned a dedicated Client Success Manager, who knows your project inside out and keeps it on track from start to finish.  They will help facilitate progress every step of the way, so you can focus on achieving your goals quickly and effectively. 
   

Want to learn more about our approach to digital learning? Reach out to info@skillburst.com or visit our Contact Us page.