And so, another (far too short) series of Sherlock has finished. Back to the brain-dead ‘choice’ of TV programmes involving so-called celebrities doing pointless things, or ‘talent’ shows that don’t seem to encourage talent that can’t be immediately exploited for a fast buck.

For me, Sherlock is the best thing on TV by far: Intelligent, entertaining, and just a little different to everything else. It’s also proved to be a ratings winner for the BBC. But why does it tick so many boxes?

Well, for a start, it’s based on some timeless classics written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle; stories that have stood the test of time, and appealed to generation after generation. Secondly, it has been adapted and re-written by two very talented people, Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss, who have respected the original stories but made them fit today’s society. Thirdly, Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman are great actors who play their roles of Sherlock and John to perfection. The result? The best TV programme you can get (in my opinion).

But how does this link to training? Quite directly actually!

Firstly, great training is based on tried and tested theories that have stood the test of time, and are relevant from one generation to the next. Secondly, it is ‘translated’ by people who can make those theories relevant to people in specific roles in specific companies, and can use a range of techniques to ensure they can be applied in the real world. Thirdly, the training is delivered by great trainers who respect the origin of the training, and the interpretation, but are able to bring it to life and make it their own.

I’m still amazed at how many training ‘professionals’ refer to the design phase of training as an ‘add on’ service. They don’t want to spend time on it, and clients don’t want to pay for it. I know I’m a bit of a broken record on this subject, but it is fundamental to success I don’t think the BBC, the TV viewing public or Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman see Messer’s Moffat and Gatiss’ input as ‘optional add-ons’ not worthy of investment. Without their input, there simply would be no show.

In a nutshell, great training relies on solid foundations, great design/adaptation and great delivery. It’s elementary my dear Watson.

Sheridan Webb

Keystone Development - For Bespoke Training Design