L&D outsourcing models — what are staff augmentation, outsourcing, and managed learning services?

L&D outsourcing models include staff augmentation, outsourcing, and managed learning services (MLS), each offering different levels of support for hybrid and virtual training.

• Staff augmentation — temporary professionals embedded into your team to fill gaps.
• Outsourcing — delegating a project or function to an external provider.
• Managed learning services (MLS) — ongoing partnership managing multiple L&D functions at scale.
  

See a full comparison of the different models here: staff augmentation, outsourcing, and managed learning services.

Why This Matters
Each outsourcing model addresses different organizational challenges. Staff augmentation fills resource gaps flexibly, outsourcing provides turnkey solutions for specific programs, and managed learning services create a long-term partnership for continuous improvement. Choosing the right model ensures hybrid learning is delivered efficiently, cost-effectively, and in alignment with business outcomes.

Example: InSync helped a global enterprise scale onboarding across 15 countries with MLS. Over 5,000 new hires were onboarded in one year, without adding internal headcount.

Strategic Next Steps

• Match model to need — augmentation for capacity, outsourcing for projects, MLS for transformation.
• Check partner versatility — choose a provider who can deliver across all three.
• Pilot before scaling — start with one program to test fit.
• Align KPIs — define success metrics up front for any model.

Take Action

• Partner with InSync Training to discuss your outsourcing needs and explore tailored solutions.
• Test and scale with the Essential Starter Bundle — a 4-week pilot that builds confidence and capacity in virtual learning.

Learn More

• Staff Augmentation vs Outsourcing: Scale Hybrid Learning Fast — compare two outsourcing models and pinpoint when each accelerates hybrid learning.
• Build or Buy? Virtual Classroom Production & Hosting — decide whether to build in-house capacity or outsource for efficiency and control.