Managing the pre-training phaseOstin, Vasilii (Avtor) Maršíková, Kateřina (Avtor) digitaltrainingdevelopmentlearninginteractionlecturerThis study examines the significance of the pre-training phase and its impact on subsequent learning outcomes. It investigates the critical role of contemporary digital technologies in employee development, specifically during the initial pre-training stage. The research aims to provide a deeper understanding of how these technologies support, rather than diminish, lecturer–learner interaction. Methods: To achieve this objective, the paper utilized a mixed-methods approach. First, four semi-structured interviews were conducted to capture the organizational perspective. Subsequently, the authors surveyed participants to gather learner perspectives, allowing for the analysis of the training environment. Results: The findings confirm that interaction between the lecturers and learners is pivotal to the employee development process, particularly during the pre-training phase. Additionally, the results indicate that digital solutions positively influence both parties in achieving primary learning goals. Conclusion: The findings of this study offer significant theoretical and practical implications. The research highlights that pre-training activities function as a catalyst for effective employee development and subsequent organizational implementation. Furthermore, by integrating organizational and employee perspectives within a European context, this study provides a holistic view of modern training complexities.20262026-06-10 09:03:10Znanstveno delo98400UDK: 37:004COBISS_ID: 280916227DOI: 10.2478/orga-2026-0007ISSN pri članku: 1318-5454sl