Turn a work problem into a learning objective
“Improve Excel skills” is broad. Make it specific: refresh a monthly report using consistent controls and reconcile it to source totals. State what participants should be able to produce.
Assess a practical output
Use baseline and final tasks that test the same skill. Define correctness, explanation and repeatability criteria. A test score alone may not show practical application.
Follow up after training
Review skill application with the manager at an agreed point. Consider workload changes and other factors rather than attributing every outcome to training. Certificate requirements and business impact are different measures.