In a survey, clients and consultants agreed that actions fostering success are the following: agreeing on objectives and evaluation measures, providing flexible approaches, gaining commitment, and preparing the consultant. Both cited unclear/unrealistic objectives as a pitfall. To improve client/consultant success, guidelines can identify the…

This article provides a flexible systems approach model for planning programs that includes seven steps: (1) assessing needs; (2) establishing priorities and responsibilities; (3) selecting goals and objectives; (4) allocating resources; (5) selecting teaching techniques; (6) evaluating outcomes; and (7) determining effectiveness. (JOW)

Describes a line manager's successful attempt to design an autonomously run plant. The author discusses the assembly of a team of workers to develop the plant, product design, characteristics of the team members, the employee reward system, role of the plant manager, and the manager's evaluation of the plant's success. (CT)

In order to make an efficient and effective contribution to learning, audiovisual media must be designed to fit the situation, not vice versa. The effectiveness and efficiency of media are discussed, along with the skills required by a good media specialist. Marketing the media contribution is also explored. (CT)

The authors studied 50 organizations to find which have the most successful career development programs and why. The results are codified into 12 principles, including stay specific, tailor program to culture, build from a conceptual base, formalize, design multiple approaches, co-design and manage the project, ensure top management support, and…

Includes "Outdoor Training: Revolution or Fad?" (Wagner, Baldwin, Roland); "Getting the Most out of Outdoor Training" (Buller, Cragun, McEvoy); and "Outdoor Training Companies" (a directory of more than 100 firms). (JOW)

Describes the development of a training program for salespeople (trainees and managers) called Dimensional Sales Training (DST). It is noted that DST is designed to increase sales, build skills, and improve performance, while providing a systematic process of collecting data for measuring program effectiveness. (EM)

Describes a positive seven-step process for initiating a whole organization development (WOD) effort. Steps include clarification of whole organization objectives, data gathering, diagnosis, prescribing interventions, commitment, implementation, and progress review. (CSS)