Skip to main content
Logo Tony Talent DevelopmentTTD
Module 4/5 9 min

Who does what? Dividing the functions

Step 1 / 5·Where do L&D and TM differ?

0/5 steps done

Learning objectives — after this module you will:

  • Clearly distinguish the responsibilities of L&D and Talent Management
  • Understand how Talent Development connects the functions
  • Position the role of HR and the HRBP relative to TD
Learn ~3 min

Where do L&D and TM differ?

Grasp the responsibility boundary between the two most common functions.

L&D and Talent Management often work closely and overlap (especially at the 'develop' stage), but their focus differs. Understanding the boundary helps you know who should lead what.

A quick comparison of L&D and Talent Management

AspectL&DTalent Management
FocusBuilding skills & knowledgeRight person in the right role
Key questionHow do people learn and improve?Who is talent, and how do we retain and develop them?
Typical activitiesTNA, course design, training measurementTalent review, succession, performance management
ToolsADDIE, 70-20-10, Kirkpatrick9-box, competency framework, career path
OutputLearning programs & solutionsTalent & succession plans

Key takeaway: L&D leads building capability; Talent Management leads managing talent across the lifecycle. They overlap at development.

Back