Negentropy is a construct drawn from physics that can be conceptualized as the opposite of energy losses associated with normal organizational life. Over time, physical systems tend to "wind down" or entropy, eventually into disintegration. The application of negentropy to social systems, metaphorically, is the primary purpose of this…

The paper reflects on the implications of selecting local multifunctional networks as a principal method of achieving improvement in the transition experience of young people with life-limiting conditions, given the range of blocking factors identified. It summarises a programme of work that aimed to tackle these blocks through developing local…

Describes trends affecting both knowledge workers and the performance technologists who support them. Five strategies are suggested for providing performance support: (1) address systems-level issues; (2) align performance technology efforts with technological imperatives; (3) provide information filters; (4) provide custom tools; and (5) make…

Evaluated nine diverse HIV/AIDS training programs to determine the degree to which programs produced changes in the way that health care systems delivered HIV/AIDS care. More than half the 218 trainees interviewed gave at least one example of a systems change. (SLD)

Examines the relevance of reengineering for organizational development in a technology-enabled marketplace. Emphasizes the need for shorter timeframes to implement change and discusses reasons for reengineering failure, as well as ways to make executive sponsorship more secure. (AEF)

Discusses how to improve an organization's training and communications system, both philosophically and technically, and highlights activities conducive to a rewired communication system. Lists online sources on the topic and freeware packages that can be downloaded, and includes job aid forms designed to be copied and posted in the organization.…

With increased costs and decreased funding, it will be increasingly necessary for academic library directors to become heavily involved in fundraising, or development. Discussion includes systems development; funding sources; staffing and organization; and impacts of fundraising on the administration, staffing, and organization. (AEF)

The objectives of the Launching Conference of the South African Institute for Distance Education (SAIDE) are reviewed, and its recommendations are explored. The conference participants considered how theories, teaching, and administrative practices in distance education worldwide could be used to design a new distance education system for a…