Benchmark practice Towards Maturity has extended the deadline of its learning technologies benchmark study to 16 August 2011.
 

More than 400 organisations have already participated with 73% of participants reporting that just taking part has given them new ideas to improve the impact of their learning services. The study enables organisations to benchmark their learning and development activites against other participating businesses.  
 
Early findings from the study show:

• 60% of organisations are expecting to see the budget allocation for learning technologies increase in the next two years.
• 38% are now using mobile technology in learning.
• Twice as many companies are using third party social media sites in learning compared to Towards Maturity 2010 research.

The study takes 40 minutes to complete and those who complete it receive a free personalised online report with their Towards Maturity Index, a figure that represents the scale of good practice used in their organisation.
 
In addition, participants also receive a high level report detailing key performance indicators and recommendations for further actions, as well as a new Time for Action – 101 tips for success white paper, containing practical advice gathered from previous benchmark participants.
 
Over the eight years of benchmarking, 1,500 organisations and 3,000 learners across the private, public and not-for-profit sectors have taken part in Toward Maturity’s free benchmark.
 
Laura Overton, managing director at Towards Maturity, said: "I encourage organisations who are interested in indentifying and sharing effective implementation practices to take advantage of the benchmark extension and get involved.  
 
"The study feedback from participants so far has been great - one blue chip company told us - Thank you, I've done this a couple of times now - and it keeps me sharp," she added.

Take part in the study here.