Discusses an effective way to develop a training program in a few days or weeks without shortchanging the company or the participants. (JOW)

Discusses the importance of avoiding training programs that look great on paper but do not work well in actual practice. Advocates focusing on the people and not the program or training technology. (JOW)

Four major considerations must be taken into account when planning a training program: content, external constraints, skills and preferences of faculty, and learning styles of participants. Understanding differences in learning styles can significantly affect the outcome of training. (JOW)

To avoid "crisis training" and gain management support, professional trainers should develop a comprehensive training policy that includes a mission statement, goals and objectives, a management system, needs assessment, costs, record-keeping method, and evaluation mechanism. (SK)

Discusses a thorough, clearly documented, fast way to design training programs. The method is particularly good for programs that are too long, used repeatedly, or involve a series of related programs. (JOW)

Consists of two articles that (1) suggest use of the Delphi method for eliciting the recommendations of experts on the content of a meaningful and timely course of study for education and training programs and (2) discuss the importance of linking training evaluation to the processes of design and implementation. (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)

Evaluating training programs through the use of checklists is explained. One sample checklist is presented for use by managers, supervisors, and/or evaluators for the program design and developmental process evaluation. Another checklist is presented concerning learning conditions. (CT)

Smooth relations between unions and management are shown as a function of solid planning and implementation. The authors discuss developing new organizational structures, creating new opportunities, designing and planning, governing and managing, developing and delivering training, and creating awareness. (CT)

The author presents a developmental model designed to help productivity improvement and professional development become an integral part of the natural everyday work experience. Examples and a summarized model are included. (CT)

The author states that to meet the needs of--and to retain--the people in whom organizations have made hefty investments, companies must reexamine and most likely redesign human resource development programs. She presents ways to acknowledge the differences between managerial men and women and establish effective career development practices. (CT)

Various types of human resource accounting systems are described and analyzed: asset models, expense models, the utility formula, cost/benefit analysis, and a comprehensive program design. Steps in this last design (e.g., review all jobs in the organization, analyze training needs for targeted jobs, determine training programs that have the…

To ensure significant improvement in individual and organizational managerial effectiveness, the design and implementation of soft-skill management development programs need to address the six factors leading to change resistance and the five critical elements that contribute to success. These factors and elements are discussed in detail. (CT)

Four training experts are interviewed regarding developing training programs on an unfamiliar topic. They all said: teach yourself first, determine the needs to be met, and use the experts. They disagreed on the degree of knowledge a trainer should attempt to achieve and the types of resources trainers should use. (CT)

Two articles discuss successful transfer of training. In the first, Arty Trost recommends focusing on needs assessment, training design, and program delivery. Dana and James Robinson, in the second article, suggest eliminating barriers in the work environment--in learners, supervisors, and the organization--to guarantee that new skills are used on…