In this episode of *Perform Beyond*, Louise Brogan explores the behind-the-scenes operations of VPS's logistics and learning administration services. She is joined by Colin Lauder, Priyesh, and Pontus Nygren, who provide insight into how VPS supports clients through centralised training administration, learner care, and data management from their service centre in Barcelona.

The conversation highlights how VPS has built a global network for learning support, including managing multilingual training across multiple industries. Priyesh shares the background of the 20-year journey of the Barcelona service centre and the different ways it has evolved to meet the needs of various clients. Pontus goes into detail about how his team supports clients in EMEA, offering back-office administration, project management, technical support, and more. The episode also focuses on how data analytics helps optimise training delivery, measure compliance, and enhance the overall learner experience.

Key Takeaways:

- Global Learning Administration: VPS operates a central service centre in Barcelona, which manages training logistics across Europe and beyond, offering support in 17 languages.

- Client-Specific Services: The Barcelona service centre adapts its approach based on client needs, offering everything from back-office support to project management and technical LMS assistance.

- Data and Reporting: VPS utilises data analytics to track learner performance, ensure compliance, and refine training programs based on real-time insights. This helps clients stay on track with mandatory training requirements and class fulfilment.

- Learner Care: The learner care team provides multilingual support to clients' employees, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance, whether in person or virtually, to meet their learning goals.

- 20 Years of Success: The Barcelona service centre celebrates 20 years of service excellence, showcasing VPS’s commitment to supporting diverse industries with high-quality training administration.

Upcoming Episodes:  

In the next episode, the final of this series, the team will discuss the many advantages of outsourcing learning and development services to VPS and how it benefits clients across different sectors.

- The final episode will focus on the advantages of outsourcing learning and development to VPS, covering how outsourcing can save time, reduce costs, and improve efficiency for clients.

Make sure to subscribe to *Perform Beyond* to catch the final episode, where we dive into the advantages of outsourcing. If you missed previous episodes, be sure to check them out to understand more about how VPS operates behind the scenes. Don’t forget to follow us on LinkedIn for more updates, and feel free to leave a rating or review to let us know what you think of the podcast.

https://www.linkedin.com/company/vertexprofessionalservices-vps

Why Outsourcing Learning and Development Works: The Final Episode

Host: Louise Brogan Guests: Colin Lauder (Operations Manager), Maureen Owens (Learning Manager), Priyesh (Shared Service Centre Manager), Pontus Nygren (Service Centre Manager, EMEA)

In the final episode of Perform Beyond, Louise Brogan wraps up the podcast series by diving into why companies should consider outsourcing their learning and development needs to VPS. Joined by Colin Lauder, Maureen Owens, Priyesh, and Pontus Nygren, the team discusses the many advantages outsourcing can provide, including cost savings, increased efficiency, and access to industry-leading expertise.

The conversation centres around real-life examples of how outsourcing learning and development to VPS has benefitted clients in various industries, from financial services to automotive. The team emphasizes the wealth of knowledge and experience that VPS brings to the table—decades of collective experience that cannot easily be replicated in-house. The episode also highlights how VPS’s use of cutting-edge technology, such as AI chatbots and customised learning management systems, streamlines administration and supports learners.

Key Takeaways:

• Cost Savings and Efficiency: Outsourcing helps companies focus on core competencies while reducing operational costs and improving service efficiency by leveraging VPS's scalable resources.

• Access to Expertise: VPS offers unparalleled access to specialists in training delivery, content development, and learning technology, ensuring clients benefit from best practices across multiple industries.

• Long-Standing Experience: With over 20 years of experience running the Barcelona service centre and a proven track record in the field of learning and development, VPS brings deep industry knowledge to every project.

• Data-Driven Success: VPS doesn’t just offer expertise; they back up their work with robust data and analytics to measure success, ensuring clients get tangible results.

• Award-Winning Programs: VPS has helped clients win prestigious awards, including the Stevie Awards and Brandon Hall Awards, through their effective learning and development programs.

Upcoming Episodes: This is the final episode of this series. Stay tuned to VPS’s LinkedIn page for updates on future content and podcast series.

https://www.linkedin.com/company/vertexprofessionalservices-vps

If you’ve enjoyed the Perform Beyond podcast, be sure to share it

In episode five of *Perform Beyond*, host Louise Brogan is joined by Amanda Downs and Maureen Owens to explore the design process for client training programs at VPS. Building on previous episodes, this discussion delves into how VPS creates engaging, inclusive, and adaptable training content for their clients, with a focus on keeping it fresh and aligned with client needs.

Amanda shares insights on the importance of updating content regularly, adding new activities and interactions to keep learners engaged, and ensuring the content remains visually appealing and dynamic. Maureen adds her expertise, explaining how the team works closely with clients to ensure content is relevant, whether it involves small updates or significant changes due to new regulations or corporate acquisitions.

The episode also highlights the inclusion of diversity in training content, ensuring that the visuals, scenarios, and user experiences represent a wide array of backgrounds and abilities, with a focus on accessibility. Amanda and Maureen talk about the importance of awards and recognition for training programs, noting that VPS often submits training programs on behalf of clients for prestigious awards such as the Brandon Hall Awards and CIPD Awards.

Key Takeaways:

- Engaging Training Content: VPS regularly updates training content with new graphics, animations, and interactions to ensure it remains fresh and engaging for learners year after year.

- Inclusion and Accessibility: VPS incorporates diverse names, images, and scenarios in training materials to ensure inclusivity. They also design accessible versions of courses for users with specific needs, including captions, transcripts, and colour adjustments for visually impaired learners.

- Customisable Training: When a client acquires new teams or businesses, VPS adapts training content to reflect the new company's branding, terminology, and specific learning needs. This customisation ensures that training is tailored to the individual experience of the learner.

- Award-Winning Courses: VPS works closely with clients to submit training programs for prestigious awards, demonstrating the effectiveness and quality of their bespoke training solutions.

Upcoming Episodes:  

In the next episode, the team will discuss how VPS balances new trends in learning with established practices and explore the company's strong relationships with industry bodies.

Make sure to subscribe to *Perform Beyond* so you don’t miss the upcoming episodes. If you have any questions or thoughts on the topics discussed, feel free to reach out to the VPS team through their LinkedIn company page or contact them via the information provided in the show notes. Don’t forget to follow VPS on LinkedIn to stay updated on their latest projects and award-winning achievements.

https://www.linkedin.com/company/vertexprofessionalservices-vps

In episode six of the VPS podcast, host Louise Brogan is joined by Amanda Downes, Instructional Designer and Project Manager, and Maureen Owens, Learning Manager at VPS. Together, they dive into the challenges and strategies involved in balancing new industry trends with established regulatory practices in the development of training programs.

The discussion opens with an exploration of the importance of not falling prey to "shiny object syndrome"—the tendency to chase after the latest trends at the expense of core principles. Emphasising that learning outcomes should always take precedence, Amanda explains how instructional designers play a crucial role in ensuring that courses are both engaging and effective. Maureen underscores the necessity of adhering to regulatory guidelines, which are critical for maintaining course standards and compliance.

They also talk about their relationship with industry bodies like the IOB, CIPD, and the Insurance Institute, which help them stay current with regulatory requirements and best practices. Amanda mentions their involvement in industry forums and learning symposia that keep the team updated with emerging trends. Maureen elaborates on the process of submitting courses for approval to these bodies to ensure they meet CPD requirements, stressing the importance of thorough editorial reviews and quality checks.

The episode also highlights the wider VPS team, which includes not just instructional designers but also in-person and virtual trainers who bring valuable real-world experience to their programs. This collaborative effort ensures that the training programs are both high-quality and compliant. Louise praises the team's ability to balance new and exciting trends with the essential goal of making sure "the learner learns."

Inside this Episode:

1. Balancing trends and regulations in training is crucial. As Amanda Downes wisely put it, the main goal is to ensure that "the learner learns," rather than just getting lost in flashy, new technologies. A timeless reminder for effective education.

2. Real-world experience adds immense value. Maureen Owens highlights the importance of having trainers who can relate real-life examples from their previous roles in financial services, making the learning content more relatable and impactful.

3. Keeping up with industry standards requires a mix of regulatory compliance and cutting-edge trends. Amanda Downes and Maureen Owens share their approaches at VPS, showing how a balanced strategy benefits both learners and clients.

4. Industry bodies play a pivotal role in maintaining the quality of educational content. Maureen Owens discusses how VPS submits courses for approval, ensuring they meet CPD requirements and provide real value. Quality checks are non-negotiable.

5. Trend-watching vs. core principles: In learning design, it's easy to get sidetracked by shiny new tech. Amanda Downes emphasises the importance of focusing on core learning objectives to ensure effective knowledge transfer.

Are you ready to dive into the often overlooked but crucial aspect of training? Join us for Episode 7 as VPS breaks down the nuts and bolts of managing logistics and administration in a learning environment.

Make sure to subscribe to *Perform Beyond* so you don’t miss upcoming episodes. If you found value in this episode, please leave us a rating and review, and feel free to share it with colleagues or friends who might benefit from learning more about how VPS balances new industry trends with established regulations and practices.

https://www.linkedin.com/company/vertexprofessionalservices-vps

In this episode of the Perform Beyond Podcast, host Louise Brogan engages with Amanda Downes, an instructional designer and project manager, and Maureen Owens, learning manager at VPS. Together, they explore the crucial topic of training needs analysis (TNA) within the financial services sector.

Maureen elaborates on the importance of conducting a comprehensive TNA to identify skill gaps and align them with the client's business strategies, focusing a year in advance. She highlights key training areas such as ESG (environmental, social, and governance) and mandatory regulatory training like data protection and anti-money laundering.

Amanda gives an insight into the instructional design process, stressing the importance of keeping training content up-to-date and in compliance with the latest regulations. She also touches on the use of technology, particularly in creating engaging learning experiences through e-learning modules, videos, graphics, and virtual environments.

The discussion also dives into the role of AI in the training process, contrasting the varied acceptance levels across different sectors. Amanda and Maureen share exciting examples, such as the creation of a virtual island for a client in the motor industry, demonstrating the potential of AI and graphic enhancements.

Inside this Episode:

1. In-Depth Analysis on Training Needs: Dive into the intricacies of training needs analysis with Amanda and Maureen as they provide a comprehensive overview of identifying and addressing skill gaps in financial services.

2. Building Effective Training Strategies: Effective training strategy begins with thorough needs analysis. Maureen and Amanda explain how VPS expertly bridges client goals and mandatory regulatory requirements, ensuring a robust learning framework.

3. AI in Financial Services Training: AI in training remains contentious. Financial services shows cautious optimism. Amanda and Maureen discuss clients' divided stances on integrating AI, and how VPS is navigating this evolving landscape.

4. Quality and Technology in Training: The VPS approach integrates advanced technology with instructional expertise. Amanda and Maureen highlight the importance of quality content, from graphic design to virtual reality, ensuring compliance and engagement.

5. Strategic Precision in Large-Scale Training: Addressing training for large client bases requires strategic precision. Maureen and Amanda detail VPS's methodical approach, prioritising mandatory training, regulatory adherence, and specific skill development, ensuring optimal learning outcomes.

Are you ready to take your training programs to the next level? In episode 5, we’ll explore the art of creating engaging training in the financial services industry! 

Discover the secrets to transforming dry compliance modules into captivating learning experiences. Find out how VPS leverages cutting-edge technology and innovative instructional design techniques to keep learners hooked while meeting stringent regulatory requirements.

Make sure to subscribe to *Perform Beyond* so you don’t miss upcoming episodes. If you found value in this episode, please leave us a rating and review, and feel free to share it with colleagues or friends involved in corporate training, especially within financial services

https://www.linkedin.com/company/vertexprofessionalservices-vps

In this second episode of *Perform Beyond*, Louise Brogan is joined by Colin Lauder, Maureen Owens, and Priyesh from VPS to dive deep into the onboarding process that VPS follows when starting with a new client. The conversation centre’s around how VPS customizes their approach to meet the needs of each client, particularly in the financial services sector, where they have been operating for over five years.

The episode outlines the key phases of onboarding: the discovery phase, transition phase, and go-live phase. Colin and Maureen discuss the importance of understanding a client's business, culture, and goals, while Priyesh explains how VPS leverages data and workflow management systems to ensure smooth operations and performance tracking. The episode also touches on flexibility, emphasizing the need for adaptability in response to changing client priorities or industry regulations.

Key Takeaways:

- The Three Phases of Onboarding: 

  1. *Discovery Phase*: Building relationships and understanding the client's needs, culture, and KPIs.

  2. *Transition Phase*: Defining roles, developing a 100-day plan, and establishing processes and SLAs.

  3. *Go-Live Phase*: Testing, refining, and reviewing performance as the solution is implemented.

- Flexibility in Operations: While the 100-day plan is critical, both Colin and Maureen highlight the importance of remaining flexible to accommodate changing client needs and external factors like industry regulations.

- Collaboration with Clients: VPS values building strong, collaborative relationships with clients. Being physically present on-site helps smooth out challenges and ensures better understanding and communication.

- The Role of Data: Priyesh explains how VPS tracks every step of the administration process, using workflow management systems and data analytics to monitor KPIs and SLAs, ensuring service excellence.

Upcoming Episodes:

In the next episode, the team will discuss how VPS ensures governance and quality assurance with its clients. They will cover KPIs, SLAs, and the importance of a governance model to maintain high service standards.

- Explore how VPS sets up governance models with clients, ensuring all KPIs are met and continuously evaluated for the best possible service delivery.

Make sure to subscribe to *Perform Beyond* so you don’t miss upcoming episodes. If you found value in this episode, please leave us a rating and review, and feel free to share it with colleagues or friends who might benefit from learning more about VPS’s onboarding processes.

In the third episode of *Perform Beyond*, Louise Brogan is joined again by Colin Lauder, Maureen Owens, and Priyesh to explore the critical importance of compliance and governance in the learning and development programs provided by VPS. The team focuses on how VPS ensures that its clients, especially in the highly regulated financial services sector, remain compliant with industry standards and regulations.

The discussion covers the detailed governance framework that VPS uses to monitor and measure success, including key performance indicators (KPIs) and service-level agreements (SLAs). Maureen shares her experience working in financial services and how the VPS team ensures their clients meet regulatory guidelines across multiple regions. Priyesh explains how VPS uses data and analytics to ensure that both operational and strategic goals are being met, providing insights into learner performance and course content efficacy.

Key Takeaways:

- Governance and Compliance: Governance is defined as the overarching framework of how VPS manages processes, policies, and people interactions, ensuring that both VPS and its clients adhere to regulatory standards.

- Critical Regulatory Topics: Compliance with regulations such as data protection, anti-money laundering, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) requirements are essential in the financial services sector. Maureen explains how VPS helps clients remain compliant, working closely with regulatory bodies and organizations like the Insurance Institute and LIA.

- Role of Data in Compliance: Priyesh shares how VPS leverages data analytics to track compliance, manage SLAs, and provide strategic reporting. The team uses this data to adjust training programs based on performance trends and learner feedback.

- CPD Hours: Continuous Professional Development (CPD) hours are crucial for many roles within financial services. VPS ensures that training programs are designed to help learners meet their CPD requirements throughout the year.

- Global Reach and Localized Governance: VPS supports clients across multiple countries, ensuring compliance with region-specific regulations. The team emphasizes the importance of tailoring content to meet the unique requirements of different jurisdictions.

Upcoming Episodes:  

In the next episode, the team will discuss how VPS evaluates and develops a comprehensive training curriculum that meets client needs.

- The next episode will focus on the training curriculum and how VPS evaluates and adapts its training solutions to meet the evolving needs of its clients.

Make sure to subscribe to *Perform Beyond* so you don’t miss upcoming episodes. If you haven’t yet listened to the previous episodes, check them out for more insights into VPS’s processes. Feel free to share your thoughts and feedback on the VPS LinkedIn company page.

https://www.linkedin.com/company/vertexprofessionalservices-vps

In this introductory episode of *Perform Beyond*, host Louise Brogan sits down with two key members of the VPS team, Colin Lauder and Maureen Owens, to discuss their roles and the exceptional work VPS does in the financial services training industry. Colin shares his experience as Operations Manager, where he oversees the delivery of comprehensive learning and development services for clients, while Maureen explains her journey into the learning and development industry and how she supports clients in her role as Learning Manager.

Listeners will get a detailed overview of what Vertex Professional Services (VPS) is all about, from providing end-to-end learning solutions, such as content development, learning administration, and training delivery, to the importance of building strong partnerships with clients. Colin and Maureen discuss the value VPS brings to their clients, emphasising collaboration, continuous improvement, and a commitment to client satisfaction.

Key Takeaways:

- What VPS Offers: A full end-to-end learning and development service that includes content development, event management, and training delivery. 

- The Importance of Collaboration: VPS doesn’t just deliver learning solutions but works closely with clients to ensure personalised, impactful, and collaborative outcomes.

- Personal Stories: Maureen shares her story of accidentally getting into the learning and development field, which led to her passion for helping others grow through training.

- The VPS Approach: Colin highlights the importance of continuous improvement in processes and technology to better serve clients.

Upcoming Episodes:

Stay tuned for the next episode, where Colin and Maureen will discuss the VPS onboarding process, detailing how they tailor onboarding experiences to each client’s specific needs.

- The next episode will cover how VPS effectively onboard new clients, diving into the discovery phase, 100-day plan, and implementation strategies.

- Special guest Priyesh will join to share his experience with project initiation in the financial services sector.

Don’t forget to subscribe to *Perform Beyond* to catch the upcoming episodes, and if you enjoyed this one, leave us a rating and review. We’d love to hear your thoughts on the topics we’re discussing!