A very important part of HR, with a lot of literature allocated, and a trendy topic among all companies in expansion is Learning and development. People most usually talk about learning in the same context with development without making any distinction between them. There are however some elements of distinction between the two concepts and in Mindit we chose to present it using a familiar language to our dear engineers. We invite you to a journey of releasing personal versions of oneself.

To begin with, the versioning in software development operates with three notions, described in numbers and delimited by dots in an incremental manner:

incremented whenever a new major release is performed, a new version of the application like a new version of the OS
incremented for each new feature
incremented after bug fixing without new features added.

Taking this towards personal development we can translate them into:

Development The learner is mastering all skills and required knowledge in such a manner that they are expressed in one’s habits. The new version is autonomous and can coach and mentor others into learning the subject.
Learning The learner is adding new skills and behaviours, or features, updates knowledge. It is adding up information and can work autonomous yet does not master the skill and still needs guidance.
Feedback Each feedback received in real-time for one’s work, new small discoveries on the subject, small variations in one’s knowledge, skills or behaviour done on short notice.

The road between patch and major release of one’s new self can however be rather challenging and timely, the difference between those who reach a new incremented major and those who tumble in either patch or minor being the attitude and commitment to the path. Each new version must be treated like a precious and priority project, with all phases clearly planned and estimated:

It all starts with the design. Each person ready to embark on the road to the new self must first depict in detail the path to follow – sound self-assessment is the starting element at this stage and it should be backed up with awareness, creativity and courage. A good understanding of the status quo is essential in this phase, likewise the destination for ones journey, all put in context with priorities and activities. It is the phase of SMART objectives ( SMARTER for ecologists), adjusted to the values, interests and passions. It is the time of assessing the Why behind the objective and getting the needed fuel for the journey.
Once the objectives are set and the commitment is taken, it’s high time for planning. The learner makes lists and plans, defines the next steps and sets timeline, KPIs, specific actions, chooses learning methods most appropriate for the objective and own learning style. Most importantly, identifies those to be in charge with the support to carry on when in doubt and schedule small wins to remain on track. Celebration is always important to boost the energy and refresh the commitment. Bear in mind however that this step should not last forever!
The hardest step is the do part. Here one needs to implement the specific actions defined as planned.
Evaluation keeps one connected to the progress on the subject and it is important as the objectives are measurable and attainable. This part can include a test, a certification passed, being able to perform a task without guidance and review and all other forms of assessment.
Monitoring and adjusting. Sometimes the plans don’t match reality, yet a rigorous and consistent tracking of the actions and progress can ensure the success of the project. Be flexible, allow yourself to adjust your path if the road is more painful that the prospective of success and enjoy every minute. Which leads to the final step
Celebrate success. Each achievement no matter how small is a step towards one’s goal. Celebrate! And plan for a proper celebration once the Major is attained! You deserve it!

So what is your depicted version and how do you plan to get it?

Authors of the model: Bianca Duminica and Maria Ionescu