The L&D Blog

Featured in Print: Contributing to a Leading L&D Textbook

    We’re proud to share that Optimus Learning Services has been featured in the latest edition of Learning and Development Practice in the Workplace (5th Edition), published by Kogan Page.

    This widely used textbook supports HR and L&D professionals, CIPD learners and practitioners looking to build and apply effective learning practices in the workplace.

    Why this matters to us

    Recognising our contribution to L&D

    Our inclusion reflects the experience we’ve developed with clients over the past 16 years and our commitment to practical, people-centred approaches to learning and development.

    Aligned with our learning philosophy

    Great learning is about more than delivering courses – it’s about clarity, process, partnership and purpose. Being featured in this text reinforces the value of that approach.

    Supporting the next generation of practitioners

    The book is used by learners and professionals progressing within the L&D field. We’re pleased to contribute insights that may support their development and practice.

    A word from Our Managing Director, Blake Henegan

    “We’ve supported organisations through every kind of change over the past 16 years. It’s an honour to share some of what we’ve learned with a community that’s as passionate about learning as we are.”

    About the book

    Learning and Development Practice in the Workplace, authored by Kathy Beevers and Andrew Rea, offers practical guidance on designing, delivering and evaluating learning in modern organisations. It is widely adopted by practitioners, educators and CIPD qualification learners.

    Learn more about us

    If you’d like to explore how we support organisations in building effective learning ecosystems with our training brokerage and managed learning services, we’d be happy to talk.

    Discover our services

     

    16 Years, 16 Lessons – What We’ve Learned About Making Learning Work

      Sixteen years ago, Optimus Learning Services began with one goal – to make the management of learning easier for organisations and their people.

      As we mark 16 years, we’re reflecting on the lessons that have shaped how we think, work and partner across every part of the business – from learning operations and supplier management to people development and performance.

      Here are 16 lessons that continue to guide us every day 👇

      1. Listening beats assuming.

      The best learning partnerships start with understanding — not with solutions. When we listen first, we find what really matters.

      2. Simplicity wins.

      When processes and platforms get complex, engagement suffers. Clear, straightforward systems help learning thrive.

      3. Impact is built, not bought.

      Tools are useful – but lasting outcomes come from consistency, care and collaboration.

      4. People power progress.

      Behind every great L&D initiative are the people who make it happen – learners, suppliers, managers and teams.

      5. Learning never stands still.

      What worked five years ago doesn’t always fit today. Agility is everything.

      6. Clarity creates confidence.

      When learners and stakeholders understand the “why,” learning becomes meaningful and measurable.

      7. Process quality is invisible – until it fails.

      A great process is one that nobody notices because it just works.

      8. The best partnerships are transparent.

      Mutual trust, honest conversations and shared goals are the foundation of long-term success.

      9. Data builds credibility.

      When L&D can demonstrate results, it earns influence and investment.

      10. Technology is a tool, not the strategy.

      Learning tech is an enabler – the magic happens in how people use it.

      11. Progress beats perfection.

      Small, steady improvements compound into real change.

      12. Support empowers strategy.

      When admin and supplier management are handled smoothly, L&D teams can focus on what matters most.

      13. One size fits nobody.

      Tailored approaches always outperform templated ones – every organisation’s learning landscape is unique.

      14. Communication creates culture.

      How learning is shared and discussed matters as much as what’s being taught.

      15. Curiosity sustains innovation.

      The more we ask “why” and “what if,” the better our ideas become.

      16. Celebrate the small wins.

      From improved processes to great learner feedback, every success deserves recognition.

      These lessons apply across every part of the learning ecosystem – for HR and People teams shaping strategy, for L&D teams delivering growth, for Procurement driving value and for Operations keeping it all running smoothly.

      The lessons of the past shape how we help organisations prepare for the future – a future that’s faster, smarter and more connected than ever.

      Training priorities for 2026: Where L&D Investment Is Headed Next

        As 2025 draws to a close, many organisations are already mapping out their learning priorities for the year ahead.

        Across conversations with L&D, HR and procurement teams, a clear picture is emerging of where time, attention and investment are likely to focus in 2026:

        💡 1. AI and digital literacy for everyone

        The conversation around AI in learning is shifting. While some organisations are embedding AI tools confidently, others are still exploring where to begin – and how to use them safely and ethically.

        In 2026, we expect demand for AI fundamentals, digital confidence and data-driven thinking to rise across all roles, not just technical ones. The focus will be on helping people work with technology, not around it.

        📊 2. Data and analytical thinking

        If 2025 has shown anything, it’s that data literacy is becoming a key differentiator. Organisations increasingly want managers and employees who can interpret data, measure learning impact and make informed, evidence-based decisions.

        As budgets tighten and accountability rises, being able to demonstrate ROI through data will be essential for L&D credibility.

        👥 3. Leadership in evolving workplaces

        Hybrid work isn’t going away – but it’s evolving. Many organisations have shifted toward more structured in-office patterns, creating new leadership challenges around engagement, flexibility and fairness.

        Training priorities are turning toward emotional intelligence, coaching skills and inclusive leadership, ensuring that leaders can foster connection and productivity in whatever hybrid model they operate.

        ⚖️ 4. Compliance, risk and governance

        Compliance continues to rise on the agenda – especially as AI, data protection, and ethical risk create new areas of scrutiny.

        Expect to see renewed investment in modern, engaging compliance training that’s easier to track, refresh, and evidence. Compliance isn’t just about meeting obligations anymore – it’s about building trust, culture and good governance.

        🌍 5. Sustainability and responsible supply chains

        While ESG training demand varies, there’s a growing expectation for responsible practices throughout supply chains. Organisations are increasingly holding partners and suppliers to high ethical standards – from sustainability commitments to modern slavery awareness.

        Training and awareness initiatives in these areas are becoming a quiet but steady trend, particularly as regulatory reporting expands.

        💬 6. Wellbeing, resilience and inclusion

        Wellbeing has moved firmly into the strategy column, not the benefits one. Programmes focused on resilience, mental health and inclusive communication remain in strong demand, helping teams stay engaged, supported and adaptable amid constant change.

        The best L&D strategies will continue to blend skill-building with human connection.

        ⚙️ 7. Process quality and L&D efficiency

        Efficiency remains one of the strongest L&D themes heading into 2026. Many teams are looking inward – not at what learning they deliver, but how they deliver it.

        Centralising and streamlining operations – through shared systems, improved data visibility, and sometimes external managed services – helps L&D teams save time, reduce costs and focus on strategic work.

        As organisations look to do more with less, process quality is becoming the foundation of effective learning.

        Looking ahead

        2026 will reward organisations that combine adaptability with focus – those that can balance innovation with efficiency, and human connection with digital confidence.

        From AI and analytics to wellbeing and compliance, learning priorities are becoming broader, smarter and more integrated into everyday work life.

        16 Years of Optimus Learning Services: Growing, Partnering and Making Learning Work Better for Everyone

          This month marks 16 years since Optimus Learning Services began – a milestone we’re incredibly proud to celebrate.

          From the early days our journey has always been about one thing: making learning operations simpler, smarter and more impactful.

          Over the years, we’ve evolved to build our trusted, expert training brokerage and Managed Learning Services (MLS), helping L&D teams streamline operations, save time and deliver quality learning experiences at scale. But what hasn’t changed is our people-first approach and our commitment to excellence in everything we do.

          As Managing Director Blake Henegan explains:

          “Partnership and teamwork have always been at the heart of Optimus. From the beginning, we’ve been driven by a simple mission – to make training operations easier, more efficient and more effective for every client we work with. Sixteen years on, that mission continues to evolve as the market increasingly looks to outsource training operations to improve efficiency, service quality and focus.

          We’re incredibly proud of the way Optimus has evolved over the past five years – expanding our services, strengthening customer partnerships and we continue to welcome new clients to our growing portfolio.

          As we look ahead, we’re also exploring the exciting potential of AI to enhance our services and support the modernisation of learning operations. We also see huge opportunity to help organisations – and the wider L&D industry – become more digital, more data-led and more future-ready. But no matter how far technology takes us, personal service and strong relationships will always remain at the crux of what we do. That balance between innovation and human connection is what defines Optimus.”

          Of course, none of this success would be possible without our incredible Optimus team. Their dedication, expertise and passion for delivering exceptional service are what truly set us apart. Every project, every partnership and every milestone is powered by their hard work and commitment.

          To all who’ve trusted us to support your learning and development goals – thank you. Your feedback, collaboration and loyalty have shaped who we are today.

          As we celebrate 16 years, we’re not just looking back – we’re looking forward. We’ll soon be launching a special celebratory campaign to mark the occasion, complete with free resources and giveaways.

          Here’s to 16 years of progress – and to the many more years of partnership, innovation and continuous improvement ahead.

          Stay tuned – the celebrations are just getting started. 🥂

          Proud to welcome Zurich Insurance UK with our Managed Learning Services solution

            We’re delighted to add Zurich Insurance UK to our client portfolio. This new collaboration, delivered through our end-to-end Managed Learning Services solution, is founded on a shared commitment to excellence, customer focus and sustainable growth.

            At Optimus Learning Services, we pride ourselves on delivering more than training procurement – we become an extension of our clients’ teams. For Zurich, that means a dedicated, responsive service designed to adapt to evolving needs, a streamlined portal for easy access to external training and independent, transparent advice to ensure every decision aligns with their goals.

            “From my very first conversation with Optimus, I have found them to be adaptable and accommodating of our requirements. They took the time to listen and truly understand the partnership we were looking for, and we have subsequently begun to experience the benefits of what Optimus bring. I would recommend them to anyone who wants a personal, professional, and trusted partner.”

            Simon Connolly, Learning and Leadership Manager – Zurich Insurance UK

            Just as importantly, our values align closely with Zurich’s culture, reflecting a shared commitment to delivering an outstanding customer experience. Our partnership is built on shared purpose as much as performance.

            With a seamless transition process already underway, we’re excited to begin this journey together. A very warm welcome to Zurich Insurance UK – we look forward to making learning simpler, smarter and more impactful for your people.

            ” We’re thrilled to partner with Zurich – it’s a fantastic milestone that reflects our continued growth and unwavering focus on service excellence. The Zurich Learning Team have been a pleasure to work with, and we look forward to achieving great success together.”

            Blake Henegan, Founder & Managing Director –  Optimus Learning Services

            More than box-ticking: Building strategic value into compliance training 

              For many organisations, compliance training has long been treated as a necessary evil – a once-a-year exercise to tick regulatory boxes and keep auditors satisfied. But today’s business environment demands more. Rising regulatory scrutiny, reputational risks and the increasing focus on corporate culture mean that compliance training can no longer be seen as a cost of doing business.

              Continue reading “More than box-ticking: Building strategic value into compliance training “

              Balancing learning and process quality for L&D success

                When we talk about Learning & Development (L&D), the conversation often centres around content – the relevance, the delivery style, the facilitator, or the learner experience.And rightly so. But there’s something just as critical that too often stays in the background: the processes that make it all happen.Because the truth is, no matter how good the learning is, if the process behind it is poor – the experience, outcomes and impact all suffer.

                Continue reading “Balancing learning and process quality for L&D success”

                World-class client feedback: NPS score of 76 in our annual client satisfaction survey

                  As part of our annual client satisfaction survey, we’re thrilled to share that Optimus Learning Services achieved a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 76 – placing us in the world-class category for customer satisfaction and loyalty.

                  Continue reading “World-class client feedback: NPS score of 76 in our annual client satisfaction survey”

                  Putting employee experience at the heart of learning and development

                    In today’s fast-evolving workplace, employee experience (EX) is no longer just a buzzword – it’s a business priority. From onboarding to career development, organisations are reimagining how people learn, grow and feel at work. And nowhere is this more evident than in Learning and Development (L&D).

                    Continue reading “Putting employee experience at the heart of learning and development”