Outsourcing & Managed Services
L&D Outsourcing Models — Staff Augmentation, Outsourcing, and Managed Learning Services Compared
L&D outsourcing models provide organizations with flexible ways to scale learning programs, access specialized expertise, and meet delivery demands for hybrid and virtual training. The three most common approaches are staff augmentation, project outsourcing, and managed learning services (MLS)—each offering distinct benefits, scope, and integration levels.
Why This Matters
Hybrid and virtual learning often require skills and capacity beyond what internal teams can provide—especially in facilitation, instructional design, and virtual production. Selecting the right outsourcing model can be the difference between simply filling gaps and delivering a seamless, high-impact learning experience. According to Training Industry, training delivery consistently ranks among the top outsourced learning services organizations rely on to scale effectively. Without a clear understanding of how these models differ, L&D leaders risk misalignment, overspending, or inconsistent learner engagement.
The Three Models Explained
| Model | Definition | Best For | Typical Scope in Hybrid/Virtual Learning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Staff Augmentation | Adding temporary learning professionals to your team to fill skill or capacity gaps. | Short-term projects, peak demand, specialized skills (e.g., virtual producer). | One or more contracted facilitators, designers, or producers who follow your processes and work under your direction. |
| Project Outsourcing | Contracting a partner to handle a specific learning project end-to-end. | Programs requiring outside expertise or fast turnaround without long-term commitments. | Outsourced design and delivery of a hybrid leadership program, including materials, facilitation, and reporting. |
| Managed Learning Services (MLS) | A strategic, ongoing partnership where a provider manages multiple learning functions or your entire L&D operation. | Large-scale, continuous delivery needs, global or multi-program portfolios. | End-to-end management of design, delivery, vendor coordination, quality control, and analytics for hybrid/virtual programs. |
Strategic Next Steps
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Assess gaps — identify whether the challenge is skills, bandwidth, or both.
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Match model to goal — staff augmentation for quick fills, outsourcing for defined projects, MLS for long-term transformation.
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Prioritize hybrid/virtual expertise — confirm partners have certified talent in facilitation, design, and production.
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Clarify governance and KPIs — establish accountability for quality, scheduling, and learner engagement.
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Plan integration — ensure external resources align with your internal processes and culture.
Take Action
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Partner with InSync Training to discuss your outsourcing needs and explore tailored solutions.
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Explore our Managed Service Solutions to see how MLS works in practice.
Learn More
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15 Smart Questions to Ask Before You Outsource Virtual & Hybrid Learning — a checklist to guide vendor evaluation.
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Smart Outsourcing Guide for Virtual, Hybrid, and In-Person Delivery — a resource with readiness checklists, model comparisons, and case studies.
InSync Training is proud to be recognized by Training Industry as a Top 20 Company for Staffing and Temporary Resources and to have appeared on their Top Learning Services Companies Watch List three times—proof of our commitment to high-quality, flexible outsourcing solutions for L&D teams.