Density, diversity, openness and speed: is management development aligned?

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to present a framework supporting a new approach to designing curricula for the development of management competencies.

Design/methodology/approach

The review of contributions in the strategic management and management development fields allows extrapolation of the relevant paradigm changes in the economic and business scenario and provides the background for investigating the emerging challenges in competence development processes.

Findings

The increasing speed, openness, density and diversity of business raise new challenges related to five fundamental dimensions of management as a system: its actors, concept, context, processes and purpose. This requires developing in managers a set of competencies that specifically address those aspects and holistically cover an integrated perspective rather than focusing on separated management functions, processes or skills.

Research limitations/implications

Further research is needed in the effort of taxonomising paradigm changes and defining the management dimensions which are impacted.

Practical implications

The analysis presented brings a different logic to structuring curricula. This could potentially have an impact on the design and implementation of learning initiatives in both higher education and corporate contexts. A framework useful for practitioners is provided.

Originality/value

The value of the paper is in creating a direct conceptual link among the changing features of the economic and business landscape and the deriving requirements in terms of developing management competencies. A framework useful for practitioners is provided.

Citation

Margherita, A. and Secundo, G. (2009), "Density, diversity, openness and speed: is management development aligned?", Journal of Management Development, Vol. 28 No. 10, pp. 933-944. https://doi.org/10.1108/02621710911000686