A Global Curriculum
Present in 65 countries, the global reach of Mars Incorporated illustrated the need for a unified learning program that could cross country borders. This reach also made the formation of one physical university building impractical. Mars University is largely virtual, with learning taking place throughout the world, facilitating easy access by each and every associate. However, courses follow specific curriculums, and can be delivered in classrooms as well as through eLearning tools and online communities.
“Now, our corporate learning is as good in Bangkok as it is in Washington,” says Davis.
A global learning management system coordinates and tracks learning for each Mars associate. Prior to implementation, 80 different programs were used to maintain learning records, from spreadsheets to databases and web-based tools. Today, associates use one system to research courses, register for programs, and review their training histories. Managers can also see progress made by reporting associates toward learning and advancing their careers.
