Discusses the training needs of small businesses in light of their high failure rate (50 percent). Includes characteristics of successful small businesses, potential training needs, training methods, and topics for seminars. (JOW)

The increasing worldwide use of the metric system is leading the United States into abandoning the English system of measurement and undertaking the monumental task of converting to the metric system. Great Britain offers valuable training experience to the United States with their seven year lead into metrication. (DS)

The systems approach can be used by the trainer to analyze the very complex sales force system as it exists for their companies, their customers, and their markets. (MW)

The problem of increasing costs in acquiring sales can be met by training salespeople to become more effective and productive. An accountability system for salespeople and sales managers is presented based on the return on investment management formula, a combination which considers responsibilities, objectives, and indicators. (EC)

Some forecasts about the conditions and requirements that trainers will face in the 1980s are discussed. As increased knowledge does not assure increased ability to perform, trainers should emphasize competency development instead of knowledge transmission. Other trends mentioned are adult learning, diversified delivery systems, and work…

Examines problem areas of training needs analysis (TNA), first by presenting a model of the TNA process, then by listing sources of data available for TNA (based on an analysis of the literature), and finally by proposing a method of choosing appropriate data-gathering techniques for TNA. (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…

The author presents suggestions to help the technical trainer overcome the difficulties of analyzing white-collar training requirements. These suggestions involve researching the scope of work, familiarizing yourself with terminology, learning industry codes and standards, gathering and analyzing data, and identifying major job responsibilities.…

The interview with L. W. Lehr, President of the U.S. Operation of the 3M Company, presents a management view of the company's training and development activities. The activities are based on behavior modification programs and organizational development approaches. (EC)

Training, education, and personnel development (T/E/D) are on the rise as corporate functions. The T/E/D field is undergoing change, and the article discusses the findings of a current study regarding costs, training needs, executive involvement, and effective use of T/E/D. (Author/BP)