Human Resource Development in Small Organisations: Research and Practice

Small organizations are of growing influence as a source of employment opportunities, but HRD in small organizations is a neglected field of study. This book provides a comprehensive and contemporary review of research into the practice of HRD in small organizations. The book is divided into three sections. The focus of part one is on the context of HRD research in small organizations the contextual characteristics of small organizations and the implications of these for the design and conduct of research into HRD practices. Chapters in part two report the results of research that informs informs understanding of approaches to HRD, including recent approaches such as those based on developments in information and communication technology. The third part is concerned with HRD methods as they are applied and practiced and looks at constructs such as mentoring and coaching. All of the chapters are based on recent or current research. However, there is diversity in the methodological assumptions informingthe design of that research. The contributions therefore reflect the eclectic nature of HRD research and writing. This book will be of essential interest to students, academics and policy advisors within the fields of HRD and HRM.