Training is seen by some as a way to help bridge the skills gap. Recently, Staffing Industry Review Online did a series of articles on training to bridge, see “Under the Microscope” and “Learned Professionals.” In addition, “training and accreditation” is also this week’s Staffing Word of the Week.

Staffing Industry Analysts’ Lexicon defines training and accreditation as:

“A service segment of the other workforce solutions industry, there are many forms of work-related training provided by third-party experts. Some may relate to a very particular job role such as electrical engineering, accounting or nursing, some provide education on broader skill sets such as sales techniques, public speaking/presenting, health and safety and leadership, while others help workers develop better skills on a particular software program. Many staffing firms will provide training where it can improve the skills (and, therefore, the value) of a temporary worker and, in certain countries, such as France, such training is a legal obligation. Accreditation is formal, third-party recognition of competence to perform specific tasks.”

The Lexicon is a free online resource, and the full Lexicon can be reached here.