Development and Learning in Organizations

Integrating online training systems: A case study of the North Bristol NHS Trust : Table of Contents

Sat Oct 17 08:00:42 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – Explains the implementation of a managed learning environment at an NHS Trust, summarizing successes and challenges that will be of interest to anyone planning similar system upgrades. Design/methodology/approach – Reviews an article presented by three members of the NHS Trust on managed learning environments. Findings – It was found that the quality of legacy data has been the major challenge that still needs to be worked through completely, but administrators as well as trainers and trainees have had positive feedback. Practical implications – Offers useful advice for the challenges to expect in implementing training systems such as the one at NHS. Originality/value – Gives a clear case study with practical advice. The authors claim it is a unique article in the UK.

The family as a developmental issue in expatriate assignments : Table of Contents

Irene Chiotis-Leskowich — Sat Oct 17 08:00:42 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this article is to highlight the central role of family adjustment in expatiate effectiveness, and presents it as a developmental issue. Design/methodology/approach – Literature reviews were used to create this article. Findings – Though family adjustment appears among the top reasons for expatriate assignment failure, the family as an interdependent system is regularly overlooked in expatriate preparation. This paper offers a family systems perspective and developmental techniques for expatriate family preparation. Practical implications – More focused attention to the family system in expatriate assignments – as learning and development issue, rather than a “managed” corporate issue – may well address much of the cause of expatriate failure. Originality/value – While existing literature concerning expatriate failure is increasingly extensive, very little of it attends to family system concerns and issues. Moreover, none of the literature treats family adjustment as a phenomenon for developmental activity.

Are redundancies a possibility in your organization?: How L&D can support both the business and those affected : Table of Contents

Eddie Kilkelly — Sat Oct 17 08:00:42 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this article is to look at how the learning and development (L&D) teams can enable businesses to handle redundancies efficiently and effectively, in order to ensure the best possible outcome for all parties. Design/methodology/value – This article is based on the authors own knowledge and views. Findings – Redundancy is unpalatable at the best of times and managing the process is never going to be easy. However, the L&D department has a critical role to play in mitigating the long-term negative effects through timely intervention, excellent communication, compassion, and appropriate support and assistance. Originality/value – This paper provides a redundancy management plan.

Learning through action: Engagement and behavioural change through the use of drama : Table of Contents

Esther Walker — Sat Oct 17 08:00:42 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this article is to provide L&D Managers with an informative overview of how drama works in the context of learning and development, the key methodologies involved and their benefits to the organization. Design/methodology/approach – This article is a case study providing information on how drama has been applied for learning and development purposes in a number of UK organizations. Findings – One of the key points of this article, and central reasons for Drama's ongoing success as an L&D tool, is its ability to evoke an emotional response to the learning process. Through emotion, we can engage staff and inspire them to learn, in a way that transcends other training methodologies. Originality/value – This paper introduces L&D managers to a new approach to learning. It offers a brief overview of what drama-based learning can add to the mix, and explains how these methods are helpful both to staff and the organisation as a whole. The article includes a series of case study examples from the public and private sectors to illustrate key points and methods.

A world in crisis? Does learning help to create future opportunities? : Table of Contents

Magdolna Csath — Sat Oct 17 08:00:42 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this article is to see how companies from different fields try to cope with the consequences of the economic crisis. Design/methodology/approach – Managerial approaches were analyzed. Members of the top management teams in 15 enterprizes were interviewed. Findings – The macro and micro environments of these firms were found to be very similar, but the decisions they were making were very different. It was found that the differences in strategic approaches could be explained mostly by the attitudes and values of the top management team. Originality/value – The author uses her experience in research on relationships among organisational learning, innovation, managerial values and business to describe the key differences of the two companies, who are both Hungarian owned.

Time for leaders to reveal the “right stuff”: Tough times call for a winning culture : Table of Contents

Sat Oct 17 08:00:42 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the way in which various experts are viewing the present economic crisis in the business world. Design/methodology/approach – This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings – Finds that the Kaizen principles relating to lean production and use of local suppliers, are more important than ever. Also, that this is a good time for organizations dedicated to developing leadership qualities to show their worth. Originality/value – Gives a positive theme generally to anyone wishing to become a leader.

A key differentiator: The corporate university at Alcatel-Lucent : Table of Contents

Sat Oct 17 08:00:42 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoints practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach – This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings – Organizational learning has always been vitally important. If anything, it is even more crucial today. New technologies and innovations constantly emerge and help to make an already competitive business environment even tougher. Only the strong survive and that's invariably those companies able to equip their employees and customers with the key skills and knowledge needed to meet current and future challenges. Given this scenario, corporate universities have a significant role to play. Leaders at Alcatel-Lucent are clearly aware of this fact. This university is a product of the merger between Alcatel and Lucent Technologies and is considered vital in the company's quest to succeed. And so far, so good. It has taken the Alcatel-Lucent University just two years to create the added value necessary to provide a competitive advantage for the organization. Practical implications – Provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations. Originality/value – The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

Leadership lessons from childhood: Growing up with responsibility pays dividends : Table of Contents

Sat Oct 17 08:00:42 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – This article aims to discuss who should take responsibility when it comes to harnessing and developing leadership qualities. Design/methodology/approach – The authors sought the possible existence of unique features in the developmental process of leaders, comparing a group of individuals perceived as leaders with another group distinctly perceived as non-leaders. Findings – The evidence collected seems to indicate that theory and research in the psychology of learning, and social and developmental psychology, can provide a firm conceptual base for institutionalized processes of leader development. Originality/value – The briefing saves busy executives, researchers and parents alike hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

The “Nirvana” model: a strategic training management tool to improve productivity: The case of an Indian organization : Table of Contents

Jayant Meshram, Sasmita Palo — Sat Oct 17 08:00:42 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – This paper aims to find out how employee productivity can be increased for profit through implementation of an appropriate functional and behavioural competency training program. Design/methodology/approach – An exploratory study based on primary data collection from the white goods sales Strategic Business Unit of an Indian organization. Findings – There was an increase in the overall productivity of 63 percent after implementation of the project. Research limitations/implications – The role of other factors in productivity improvement can be further delved into. Practical implications – The success story of the Project can be emulated by other Indian organizations. Originality/value – The results provided in this project could make a key contribution to the success of those wishing to improve productivity and profit.