Perspectives on Human Resource Development

In this article, the author looks back on the growth of the field of human resource development (HRD) over the past 25 years, from his perspective as president of Pfeiffer & Company. In his review, he emphasizes the value of using experiential techniques to enhance training and to cope with change. He concludes by noting six trends for the future: changes in workplace roles, increased emphasis on quality, valuing diversity, re-engineering work, competency-based training and changes in planning cycles.