What Small but Mighty Training Teams Can Do

Small but mighty training teams are often asked to deliver the same impact as much larger organizations. With limited staff, tight timelines, and growing learner expectations, it can feel unrealistic to keep up. But data from our annual State of Learning and Development report shows that small learning and development teams are accomplishing far more than many people expect.

In the report, we asked respondents what types of content they create, which technologies they use, what they outsource, and how they deliver training. The results show that even teams with just a few people are running diverse, effective programs. In fact, 37% of trainers work on teams of just one to three people. Here’s a closer look at what small training teams can do today.

1. Content Creation Across Critical Skill Areas

Small training teams develop content across a wide range of topics, with a strong emphasis on soft skills. Leadership development, management training, and interpersonal skills are the most common focus areas, reflecting the ongoing need for people-centered skills in modern workplaces.

Despite limited capacity, these teams are producing content that supports organizational priorities and learner growth. This shows that small learning and development teams are not limited to narrow use cases. They are addressing core business and professional development needs with focused, intentional content strategies.

2. Multiple Training Modes

Like larger organizations, most small training teams continue to rely on face-to-face training. However, in-person delivery is far from their only approach. Virtual training, both synchronous and asynchronous, coaching and mentoring, and on-the-job exercises are all commonly used to support learners.

34% of small training teams have adopted video learning, and nearly one-third also use industry conferences and events as part of their training strategy. This mix of training modes in learning libraries allows small teams to extend their reach, support different learning styles, and make the most of limited resources.

3. Strategic Use of Vendor Partners

Small training teams are more likely to outsource certain functions in order to stay focused on high-impact work. 53% outsource printing, and 24% rely on vendors for training locations.

At the same time, 17% of small teams do not outsource any core training functions at all. These teams handle content, delivery, logistics, and operations internally, demonstrating how adaptable and resourceful small learning and development teams can be when needed.

4. Focused, Practical Use of Learning Technology

Small training teams are nearly twice as likely as larger teams to operate without any formal learning technology. Only 35% use a learning management system, compared to 56% of their peers.

When small teams do use learning technology, it is typically applied in practical, content-focused ways. Common use cases include delivering training programs, creating learning content, setting up course modules, and assessing learner progress. Rather than overinvesting in complex systems, small training teams prioritize tools that directly support delivery and outcomes.

Small training teams do a lot with limited resources. See how Mimeo helps you simplify training logistics, manage content, and deliver materials wherever learners are. Get started today.

Want more insights like this? Check out our on-demand webinar on the State of Learning and Development.