A Sectoral Comparison of Employee Training and Development in the Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering Industry: Manufacturing vs. Services

Abstract

Training and development (T&D) play a pivotal role in enhancing employee performance, ensuring organizational growth, and maintaining competitiveness in a dynamic business environment. This research presents a comparative study of T&D practices in the manufacturing and services sectors, aiming to explore the differences in approach, frequency, methods, and perceived effectiveness. Data was collected from 100 respondents — 50 from each sector — through structured questionnaires and interviews. The study found that manufacturing organizations prioritize technical and safety training, often delivered through on-the-job methods, while service organizations emphasize soft skills and customer service training using more flexible and modern tools like e-learning and simulations. The frequency of training is higher in the services sector, and employees in this sector report greater satisfaction with training outcomes. Despite these differences, both sectors recognize the strategic value of well-designed training programs. The study highlights sector-specific challenges, such as shift scheduling in manufacturing and high employee turnover in services. The findings offer actionable insights for HR professionals and training managers to develop more targeted and effective T&D strategies suited to their sector’s unique needs.