Indeed, learning has been one of the Library's six strategic priorities for the past three years. It aims to link performance, competencies, values and strategy; identify needs; and plan further ahead.
Training middle managers was a high priority, so an Excellence in Leadership Programme was developed to enable managers to lead change. Executive directors and senior managers were also analysed for development needs against leadership competencies, enabling the organisation to build up a picture of its capabilities and succession risks.
Every individual has a personal development plan, resulting in 72% of employees feeling they now have clear targets, up from 65% in 2004. Almost three-quarters of staff say their managers give adequate feedback, an increase of 25% since 2004, while 83% are now clear about what is expected of them. All of this was done with the most senior level of commitment - from the CEO and the board and executive team.
Results show clear improvements in leadership, with all indicators increasing by 10%-50%. Staff churn fell from 12% in 2004 to 6% by the end of 2007, and appraisal discussions rose from 68% in 2005 to 98% in 2007.
"It ticks all the boxes," said one judge. "It is all-encompassing, and there is plenty of evidence on how it relates back to the business. It was also cleverly linked to other people strategies."
HIGHLY COMMENDED
- First ScotRail
Realising that excellent customer service can only be delivered by well-trained staff, First ScotRail produced a dedicated training academy with twice as many training days, improved numeracy and literacy skills and created a development plan for 75% of staff. Judges praised the strategy's link to the business need.
- Browne Jacobson
The law firm's training included executive coaching and leadership programmes that were all linked to the company's wider strategy of protecting key clients, being an employer of choice and improving efficiency. Judges liked the measures of client satisfaction and employee engagement, and also the way the strategy worked in partnership with the business.
SHORTLISTED
Asda
Store of learning invention
Tamar
L&D strategy
