Scottish Government

SQW Ltd with FMR Research Ltd

ISBN 978 0 7559 6571 7 (Web only publication)

This document is also available in pdf format (792k)

CONTENTS

LIST OF FIGURES

LIST OF TABLES

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
SUFI
Methodology
Views of Individual Callers
Views of SMES
Branded Learning Centres ( BLCS)
Value for Money
Conclusions

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION
Background to SUFI
Structure of this Report

CHAPTER TWO METHODOLOGY
Desk Based Review of Data and Background Information
Initial Consultations with Key SUFI Personnel
Telephone Survey of Individual Learners (300)
Telephone Survey of SMES/Employers (200)
Focus Group with SMES/Employers
Research into Branded Learning Centres
Consultations with External Stakeholders
Summary

CHAPTER THREE POLICY, ECONOMIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTEXT
Introduction
Review of Policy and Economic Trends
Consultations with External Stakeholder Organisations

CHAPTER FOUR SURVEY OF INDIVIDUAL LEARNERS
Introduction
Profile of Respondents
Impact on Individuals

CHAPTER FIVE LEARNDIRECT SCOTLAND FOR BUSINESS
Introduction
Review of Existing Research
Telephone Survey of 200 SMES
Benefits Arising from Contact with learndirect Scotland
SME Focus Group

CHAPTER SIX BRANDED LEARNING CENTRES
Introduction
Review of Existing Research
SQW Focus Groups with BLC Managers
SQW Telephone Interviews with 30 BLC Managers
Conclusions

CHAPTER SEVEN VALUE FOR MONEY
Determining Value for Money
Scope of Benefits
Quantifying the Benefits
Interpreting the Findings
Overall Value for Money

CHAPTER EIGHT KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS AND PROGRESS TOWARDS TARGETS
Introduction
Appropriateness of Key Performance Indicators
Assessment of Progress
Future Directions

CHAPTER NINE CONCLUSIONS
Impact on Individual Participation in Learning
Impact on SMES' Involvement in Workforce Development
Value for Money

REFERENCES

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

ANNEX A: QUESTIONNAIRES

The views expressed in this report are those of the researcher and
do not necessarily represent those of the Department or Scottish Ministers.