A survey of 83 quality circle members determined that there was no single variable that consistently emerged as the most important contributor to the effectiveness of quality circles. Member training did appear to be stronger than the other variables. (JOW)

Describes a line manager's successful attempt to design an autonomously run plant. The author discusses the assembly of a team of workers to develop the plant, product design, characteristics of the team members, the employee reward system, role of the plant manager, and the manager's evaluation of the plant's success. (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…

An accurate needs assessment process is essential in designing effective career development systems. This model helps to guarantee a high-quality needs assessment. It provides a basis for conceptualizing an ideal system for a particular organization, for describing what currently exists, and for identifying gaps between the real and the ideal. (CT)

The author examines the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's Hazard Communication Rule, also known as the Federal "right-to-know" law, aimed specifically at the chemical industry. He discusses content of the law, the role of trainers, input of labor unions, the effectiveness of safety training programs, and prepackaged…