Final answer:
The first step in any training program is assessing training needs, which identifies the necessary skills and knowledge employees need to align with organizational goals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first step in any training program is b. assessing training needs. This critical phase involves analyzing the organization's objectives, the skills and knowledge of its employees, and any gaps that exist between current capabilities and future requirements. This needs assessment directs the planning process by clarifying what employees need to learn to achieve business goals, ensuring that the training program is relevant and effective.
Once the training needs are assessed, the other steps follow: determining the training objectives, which outline what the training should achieve; determining the training content, which includes specifying what knowledge and skills the program will convey; and deciding whether to build or buy the training solutions.