Outsourcing & Managed Services

Managed learning services maturity model — how does it work?

The managed learning services maturity model works through four stages—ad hoc, reactive, integrated, and strategic. Each stage reflects how centralized your L&D is with a partner. Compare staff augmentation, outsourcing, and managed learning services.

Why This Matters

Without a roadmap, teams stay stuck in reactive outsourcing. The MLS maturity model benchmarks current state and guides improvement. Persistence Market Research projects the MLS market at $8.71 billion by 2033. InSync offers a guided path from vendor chaos to strategic alignment, supported by the InQuire Engagement Framework™. For a deeper look, see our blog on Managed Learning Services: Scale Virtual & Hybrid Training Fast.

The Four Stages of MLS Maturity

  • Ad Hoc — Internal team delivers manually. Risks: burnout, inconsistency.
  • Reactive — Vendors hired per project. Risks: vendor sprawl, inefficiency.
  • Integrated — Partner manages multiple functions. Risks: coordination challenges.
  • Strategic — Embedded MLS partner with long-term planning. Opportunities: innovate, scale with confidence.

Key Steps to Implement

  • Identify stage — Place your team at ad hoc, reactive, integrated, or strategic.
  • Document risks — Capture burnout, vendor sprawl, or missed deadlines.
  • Plan roadmap — Build milestones to progress stages.
  • Select experienced partner — Verify virtual expertise.

Take Action

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