Human Resource Development (HRD) is a practice that combines training, organizational development, and career development efforts to encourage improvement of individual, group, and organizational performance. Its purpose is to enhance employee performance and productivity, which leads to employee and customer satisfaction and an increase in the profitability of the organization.
Organizations are realizing that the knowledge residing in their intellectual capital is important in creating economic power and value. As the head of the learning department, HRD professionals have the best understanding of learning methods and modalities. They can set a budget to keep knowledge fresh and provide access to the latest information and tools.
However, HRD professionals also must realize that much of the organization’s knowledge is transferred informally between its workers. Workers talk to each other at the water cooler, at lunch, or in informal conversations throughout the day. These social opportunities are critical to building a workforce that leverages its intellectual capital.
Knowledge is power. Today’s HRD professionals have a major responsibility in leveraging the power of that knowledge to achieve the organization’s goals.
By Shirley J. Caruso, M.A., Human Resource Development
Follow
Leave a Reply