Recent research carried out by LogicaCMG finds that, despite significant expenditure, a lack of formal evaluation means there is little way of proving a return on investment for public sector training.

Out of a total of 101 central and local government and NHS bodies surveyed, only 36 per cent were mapping training effectiveness against job performance, with 83 per cent of public sector HR directors are still using the 'Happy Sheet' approach.

A lack of consistent and clear evaluation is also having a knock-on effect on the ability to secure funds for training, according to the research. One third of those responsible for training said they have an average budget shortfall of 33 percent.

The survey also found that, despite a general trend towards involving individuals in the training process and giving them ownership of their own development, one in three HR professionals questioned agreed that they tend to impose training upon employees based on percieved, rather than actual, need.

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