Opportunity or threat? The pros and cons of open courses for professional development

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint 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

In most free societies, openness is widely regarded as a virtue. Secrecy, on the other hand, tends to be viewed with suspicion. But something of a role reversal exists where the business world is concerned. With fierce competition the norm, firms quite rightly take measures to prevent confidential information becoming common knowledge. The overwhelming fear is that rival operators will use sensitive data to secure a competitive advantage. All this has considerable implications for training and development. A growing need for professional development exists at both individual and company level. Greater demand for key skills and competencies drives this need. Organizations are particularly interested in flexible provision that employees can slot in alongside everyday work commitments and responsibilities.

Practicalimplications

The paper 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.

Citation

(2016), "Opportunity or threat? The pros and cons of open courses for professional development", Development and Learning in Organizations, Vol. 30 No. 3, pp. 20-22. https://doi.org/10.1108/DLO-02-2016-0017