Let’s be real. Most learning teams in tech aren’t sitting on endless time, budget, or a neatly organized content library. We’re moving fast, juggling priorities, and to tell you the truth, we’re building the plane while we fly it.
And you know what? That’s not a flaw. That’s the job.
Being scrappy doesn’t mean cutting corners. It means getting clear on what matters, being resourceful with what you have, and designing learning that actually helps people do their jobs better—not just check a box.
Here’s how I think about building “scrappy but happy” learning in tech.
1. Start With Signals, Not Just Requests
Stakeholders love to say “we need a training on X.” But smart L&D folks know to look deeper. What’s the actual problem? Where are people getting stuck?
Sometimes the answer isn’t a 45-minute module—it’s a checklist, a Slack message, or a two-minute explainer video.
Scrappy tip: Start with the user behavior and build backward from there.
2. Build for Consumption, Not Just Completion
We’ve all shipped a beautiful course with 94% completion… only to see zero change in behavior. The problem? Completion ≠ competence.
“Scrappy” means optimizing for usefulness. Can someone find this when they need it? Can they apply it without rewatching?
Scrappy tip: Design learning that works in the flow of work, not as a detour.
3. Use the Tools You Already Have
You don’t need a new platform to make better learning. A Google Doc can be an onboarding checklist. A recorded Loom can replace a live session. A quick AI prototype can save hours on scripting.
Scrappy tip: Your LMS doesn’t need to be fancy. It just needs to be findable.
4. Collaborate Like a Consultant, Not a Content Factory
In fast-paced orgs, you can’t do it all and you shouldn’t. Shift the role of L&D from builder of all things to strategic partner. Help teams clarify what they actually need to move forward. Sometimes, that’s not training at all.
Scrappy tip: Ask “What’s the behavior we’re trying to shift?” in every intake.
5. Celebrate Imperfect Progress
In a scrappy L&D world, nothing is ever “done” AND that’s okay. Build in small cycles, measure as you go, and evolve based on real feedback. Perfect learning experiences that are never launched? Not helpful.
Scrappy tip: Ship it, learn from it, and improve it next sprint.
TL;DR: Scrappy ≠ Sloppy
“Scrappy” learning design in tech is about:
- Being user-centered
- Moving with speed and intention
- Using what you already have
- Building useful things that actually work
It’s not about doing less…it’s about doing smarter.
Happy Learning,
KP