This document is parsed into 6 sections. The activities sponsored in Phase II of the Commercial Education and Training Services Sector campaign have generated a considerable amount of information and suggestions. The following summary of some of the main ones helps set the stage for future action by the sector and governments. Small and medium-size firms dominate the emerging Canadian commercial education and training industry. The majority operate with a small core of permanent staff and hire part-time staff and independent consultants as needed for specific projects.
Few firms derive all their revenues as yet from training products and services.
Most specialize in a particular field, with executive and management development being the main area of specialization. At the same time, most have a diverse revenue and client base, including a significant proportion of individuals. Most successful firms focus on strong involvement with their clients and ensuring the quality of their product and services. The diversity of client needs has stimulated a growth in partnerships among suppliers, including partnerships between public and private suppliers, and an increase in supplier capacity to customize training programs. Most firms must absorb their research and development costs, although government sometimes supports them.