A learning organisation is an organisation which responds and anticipates changes in its environment by learning on a strategic level (Blackman 2006, p.628). Its aims are to create an environment where employees and managers expand their capacity to create the results they desire. Furthermore new and expansive patterns of thinking are nurtured and collective aspiration is set free. Employees and managers are continually learning how to learn together (Smith 2004, p.64). Literature emphasises the importance of human resource development to achieve organisational success within a learning organisation (Holton III; Yamkovenko 2008, p.278)
This review will first discuss how human resource development can contribute to organisational success. Secondly, address the importance of strategic human resource development and thirdly identify how human resource development can contribute to career planning and career development.
How human resource development contributes to organisational success
Human resource development is the study and practice of increasing the learning capacity of individuals, groups, collectives, and organisations through the development and application of learning-based interventions for the purpose of optimising human and organisational growth and effectiveness. (Chalofsky 2001,p.79)
In an environment marked by a rapid pace of change the ongoing development of the skill and knowledge of individuals is a strategic imperative for organisations. This is an important element in maintaining organisational capability and effectiveness and keeping up with change. Human resource development is concerned with enhancing the work related knowledge, skills, and capability of people; people working as individuals, in teams, and in organisations. It is about providing people with the knowledge, understanding, skills, and training that enables them to perform effectively. The existence in organisations of a learning culture, one that