E5.1: Beyond Completion: Measuring What Learning Actually Achieves

In this episode of CET Talks, Randy Bowman and Mike Veny sit down with Dr. Patti Phillips, Co-Founder and CEO of ROI Institute, Inc., to discuss what it really means to measure the effectiveness of continuing education and training. Drawing on decades of experience in evaluation and return on investment (ROI), Patti challenges learning professionals to look beyond attendance, completion rates, and satisfaction surveys to understand whether learning leads to meaningful results. The conversation examines how organizations can connect learning initiatives to business objectives, measure application and organizational impact, and build evaluation into programs from the beginning. Patti also addresses common barriers to measuring ROI, the importance of maintaining quality as AI accelerates content development, and practical approaches for smaller organizations with limited resources. Throughout the discussion, she emphasizes the role of curiosity, accountability, and intentional measurement in demonstrating the value of learning and driving continuous improvement.