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…

Explains why some programs fail to prove themselves in evaluations yet have substantial benefits. Documents a method of administering self-reports, pre-then-post testing that helps to eliminate response-shift bias. (Author)

Suggests that successful evaluation projects for training programs focus on management decisions. Provides a checklist of concerns that deal with the effectiveness, efficiency, and relevance of the program. Discusses the selection of the data level and decision-making criteria. (CSS)

According to the author, effective management training programs bridge the gap between what is taught in the classroom and what is applied on the job. Five design criteria for transfer of training are described: Managerial philosophy, feedback from others, the why as well as the how of management, problem solving, and time for reflection on the…

Discusses the strengths and limitations of television as a training device for business and industry. Notes that the effectiveness of television depends upon factors such as how closely the program content is related to specific training objectives, the characteristics of the trainees, and how well the instructor integrates the television…

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)

Discusses six major errors in management development programs. These failures include (1) not tying development programs to strategic considerations, (2) not properly qualifying participants, (3) not using proper training methods, (4) not differentiating group and individual development, (5) not providing posttraining support, and (6) not…

Describes a method to elicit data about the results of a personnel training program so that quality improvements can be made by having trainees' supervisors evaluate the training impact on the job. Also describes cases in different organizations where this approach was used to determine program weaknesses and strengths. (MF)