Kirkpatrick Four Levels
4
Levels
Reaction, Learning, Behavior, Results
5
With Phillips
ROI extension
90%
Stop at L1
Most companies measure only Reaction
each step costs more and tells you more
The Evaluation Staircase
Bar height shows measurement cost and depth. Most organizations stop at Level 1. Real impact lives at Levels 3 and 4.
L1
Reaction
L2
Learning
L3
Behavior
L4
Results
L5
ROI (Phillips)
Reaction
cost: lowestDid they like it?
Measure with: Smile sheets, post-program surveys
Learning
cost: lowDid they learn it?
Measure with: Pre/post tests, demos, certifications
Behavior
cost: mediumAre they applying it?
Measure with: Supervisor obs, 360, work sample analysis
Results
cost: highDid the business change?
Measure with: KPIs the training was designed to influence
ROI (Phillips)
cost: highestWhat was the return?
Measure with: (Benefits − Costs) ÷ Costs × 100
Exam Traps
Smile sheets are LEVEL 1 only
Post-program surveys measure satisfaction, not learning. They do not predict behavior or results.
Pre-test/post-test = Level 2
A score increase shows learning, not behavior. Behavior requires job-application evidence 30–90 days post-training.
Phillips ROI is the FIFTH level
Not part of Kirkpatricks original four. Phillips added it. The exam may test the distinction.
Higher levels cost more to measure
Most orgs stop at Level 1 because Levels 3 and 4 require longer time horizons and more data infrastructure. The exam tests the trade-off.
Liked ≠ learned
A 5-star training survey is satisfaction, not skill. Level 1 is the cheapest answer and the weakest signal.
Behavior is the gap
The space between knowing and doing is where most training programs die. Level 3 measurement closes the gap.
Did you enjoy the class? You filled out the survey. Five stars.
Did you learn the recipe? You could list the ingredients on a quiz at the end of class.
Did you cook the dish at home? Your friends report you actually made it.
Did your dinner parties improve? More invitations, better feedback, recipe requests.
Did the class cost less than the dinner-party joy it produced? Phillips wants the math.
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