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ATD Research Highlights Need for Enhanced Data Analysis Skills Among TD Professionals

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 2, 2025 - In a rapidly evolving business landscape, data analysis has become an invaluable asset for Talent Development (TD) professionals. According to a recent research study conducted by the Association for Talent Development (ATD), a staggering 69% of organizations regard data analysis skills as either highly or very valuable to TD professionals. This sentiment illustrates a growing recognition of the importance of data-driven decision-making in talent development strategies.

The report titled Data Analysis: The Future of Decision Making in TD emphasizes that these skills empower TD professionals to make informed decisions grounded in evidence rather than intuition. According to survey respondents, having advanced data analysis abilities would enhance their capability to showcase the impact of TD initiatives, ultimately demonstrating their value to stakeholders.

Key Findings from the ATD Report

The study, which surveyed 313 talent development professionals across various sectors, reveals several crucial insights:

• - Approximately 80% of TD professionals have undergone training in data analysis. Notably, over two-thirds of this training occurred within the last two years, showcasing a proactive approach to enhancing relevant skills.
• - A significant 70% of organizations offer full funding for formal data analysis training, reflecting their commitment to developing their workforce's capabilities.
• - Participants reported utilizing data analysis for multiple purposes, including assessing performance gaps, informing training design, measuring the effectiveness of training initiatives, and illustrating the overall impact of the TD function on broader business outcomes.

The ability to gather and analyze data not only enhances the decision-making process but also positions TD as a strategic partner in achieving organizational goals. The report asserts, "TD professionals should be adept at collecting and analyzing data to generate significant insights about talent development." This statement underscores the role of data in defining strategic objectives, evaluating talent initiatives, and aligning them with the organization’s mission.

As companies continue to emphasize the value of data-driven strategies, the ATD report highlights the urgent need for TD professionals to not only acquire these essential skills but also to continuously enhance them to remain relevant in their roles.

Upcoming Webinar Opportunity

For those interested in exploring this topic further, ATD will host a free webinar on December 18 at 2 PM ET. The session will delve deeper into the findings of the report, offering attendees practical insights on leveraging data analysis to support talent development efforts. This opportunity is a valuable resource for TD professionals looking to refine their skills and demonstrate their impact within their organizations.

About ATD

The Association for Talent Development (ATD) stands as the world's largest professional membership organization dedicated to professionals who develop the knowledge and skills of employees across numerous industries. Since its establishment in 1943, previously known as the American Society for Training & Development (ASTD), ATD has cultivated a global community of members from over 100 countries. These members gather in various local chapters and international networks, collaborating to further leadership development in organizations.

In conclusion, as the demand for robust talent development strategies increases, the emphasis on data analysis skills is more critical than ever. Organizations that invest in developing these competencies within their TD teams will position themselves favorably for future success.