A survey of 361 human resource developers (HRD) found that trainers are more satisfied with training than with their previous positions because HRD gives them the chance to do different things, make use of abilities, try their own methods, and earn satisfactory pay. (JOW)

To be effective, career development programs in organizations must be linked to other human resource activities that are already in place. Includes a six-stage cycle for the career development process. (Author/JOW)

The balance of power in the United States has begun to shift from youth to older age and will not soon return to a more familiar proportion. Human resource development professionals need to help their companies respond to the needs of older workers and older customers. (JOW)

Discusses the design of a performance management system that not only enables managers to solve performance problems, but also enables human resource development specialists and staff to provide a useful tool and a successful program. (CT)

Definitions of the terms accreditation, certification, and licensure are provided. Also discusses the purposes of professional certification, ways that competencies help the practitioner and the profession, and questions that need to be addressed by human resource development professionals. (CT)

Summarizes the methodology and products of the American Society for Training and Development-sponsored study to define excellence in training and development (T&D). These include a human resource wheel, future influences on the field, lists of roles and outcomes in T&D, a competency model, role profiles and clusters, and a matrix of roles…

Discusses the Chinese commitment to training and human resource development. Describes a department store, the Chinese Enterprise Management Association, a tool factory, and management development centers. (JOW)

Malcolm Knowles' career in human resource development has spanned more than 50 years. This article describes some of his achievements in adult education and presents tributes from colleagues. (JOW)

Research identified six areas of organization change that will have significant effects on development-oriented practices in and around the workplace. By the end of the century, the workplace will be different. The changes will be successful only if people change, develop, and grow. (JOW)

A recent study of academic programs in human resources development (HRD) produced the following profile of the academic researcher in HRD: male, in the field of education, graduate student or professor, focusing on training and development, doing unfunded research, method of research is descriptive rather than experimental. (JOW)

Human resources development and training are not suited to everyone. A practical, time-saving process for people wanting to become trainers includes (1) assessing relevant skills and interests; (2) researching organizations; (3) learning basic business operations; (4) learning the training process; (5) developing a chronological resume; (6)…

Twelve trends in the emerging "metaindustrial work culture" are strategic planning, systems orientation, futuristic management, transformational management, decentralized management, executive involvement, research orientation, human capital emphasis, creative work patterns, organizational culture, synergy and networking, and…

How-to information for performing a skills audit is presented. Nine steps need to be performed in three separate phases: establish basic enabling skills data, compile the data, and summarize the data. A skills analysis can aid the training staff in deciding where to concentrate their instructional efforts. (CT)

Presents a research-based model for human resource development effectiveness. Model standards specify that the HRD function has (1) the ability to diagnose problems, (2) the support of the corporate mission and culture, (3) a commitment to strategic planning and support for organizational change, (4) clearly defined staff roles and…

Career cycles should be considered apart from life cycles, even though the two are interrelated. This essay examines five theories about life and career cycles, and offers insights into their limitations and potential uses. (JB)