Impact Assessment

The Institute of Management in Government (IMG) undertakes systematic impact assessment to ensure that its training initiatives translate into measurable improvements in governance and public service delivery.

The introduction of the State Training Policy (STP) in 2004 marked a significant milestone in Kerala’s administrative reforms. For the first time, the policy formally recognised that all personnel engaged in public service require structured capacity building and continuous professional development, and that the State bears responsibility for providing the necessary institutional support, tools, and enabling environment.

Training Strategy and Framework

In alignment with the State Training Policy, IMG adopted a comprehensive and structured training strategy with a strong emphasis on systematic evaluation. Recognising that training is meaningful only when its outcomes are assessed, IMG integrated impact measurement into the training cycle.

The training process follows a phased and methodical approach:

• Identification and prioritisation of departmental training needs
• Development of structured training modules, including curriculum design, training materials, and detailed training plans
• Training of Trainers (ToT) programmes for selected officers from concerned departments
• Rollout of departmental training programmes through designated Training Coordinators
• Appointment of Training Managers in each department to oversee and ensure the smooth conduct of training activities

Programmes are delivered directly through IMG Headquarters at Thiruvananthapuram, its Regional Centres, and across districts through Departmental Coordinators. This decentralised yet structured model ensures both standardisation and contextual relevance.

Need for Systematic Impact Evaluation

While participant-level end-of-course evaluations were regularly conducted, a comprehensive assessment of the broader impact of training programmes under the State Training Policy had not been undertaken in earlier phases.

In the absence of empirical data relating to planning processes, institutional mechanisms, infrastructure adequacy, post-training follow-up systems, and the actual impact of training on participants’ knowledge, skills, and job performance, efforts to enhance programme effectiveness faced limitations.

Objectives of the Study

The study broadly aims to evaluate the effectiveness of training programmes conducted under the State Training Policy and to provide evidence-based recommendations for improvement. The specific objectives include:

• Evaluating the training processes, institutional structures, and operational mechanisms
• Assessing training content, methodology, and materials in relation to identified training needs
• Reviewing the process of faculty and trainer selection
• Examining the adequacy of infrastructure and support systems
• Evaluating post-training follow-up mechanisms
• Assessing the impact of training programmes (with specific reference to 2007–08 programmes) on participants’ on-the-job performance
• Recommending measures to enhance the overall effectiveness and sustainability of training interventionsBottom of Form