Transforming ESG Learning Into Virtual Cohorts

A large management consulting firm wanted to design and deliver a virtual cohort learning program on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) challenges and opportunities. The program aimed to upskill internal consultants and external clients on how to assess and improve their sustainability maturity and performance in a short time frame. 

The primary goal was to convert an existing ESG program to a new platform that supported social and cohort learning. This would enable peer-to-peer interaction, collaboration, and support among learners from different countries and sectors.

The program was rolled out in phases, starting with a pilot group to gather feedback and make necessary adjustments. The platform was configured and customized to support the cohort-based learning model, integrating various tools such as Articulate Rise, Microsoft PowerPoint, and Zoom.

A thorough needs analysis to understand the specific requirements of the client was done before development started. Based on the findings, a 6-week online program was suggested that covered the complexities in the science, economics, and policy of climate change. 

The program featured:

1. A cohort-based learning model that fostered a sense of community and engagement among learners from 5+ countries and various sectors.
2. A best-in-class curriculum that combined live sessions, eLearning, videos, readings, assignments, online discussions, and hands-on projects tailored to the learners’ context.
3. Creation of a network of management consultants from various fields of climate science, policy, business, and social issues, who provided guidance, feedback, and inspiration to the learners.

The program enabled internal teams to pivot to climate and sustainability consulting services, graduating internal and external alumni who gained practical skills and experience from working on real-world climate challenges. The internal alumni also formed a vibrant community of climate leaders who continue to support each other, collaborate on projects, and share resources and opportunities. The program generated new business opportunities for the firm, offering the program to its enterprise customers who wanted to upskill their global climate and sustainability practices with cohort learning-powered climate academies.

The successful implementation of the ESG learning program not only met the client's objectives but also enhanced the organization's culture and reputation as a leader in climate and sustainability consulting.