Theme 2: Organizational Performance
Performance Consulting Project
Course: EAC 582 - Organization and Operation of Training & Development Programs

This narrative discusses a group project focused on applying human resource development research-based practice in an organizational context. Garden Supplies, Incorporated (GSI), a fictitious company, hired our group consulting firm to assist them in meeting two business goals:
1) increase sales 30% through solutions-oriented approach; and 2) increase profit by 40% within the next two years.

To determine how to meet the aforementioned business goals, a memo of agreement was drafted to conduct a performance assessment of GSI's Regional Sales Manager position. We analyzed previously recorded interviews with exemplary regional and national sales managers, and presented our findings and recommendations to GSI in an executive summary and a presentation. To assist us in communicating our findings we created a performance model for the position of Regional Sales Manager. Information presented in the performance model was later used to create performance assessment and work environment questionnaires, to be completed by all regional sales managers to identify areas where training or development may be needed. Lastly, a recommended strategy was presented to GSI to assist them in moving their HR department beyond training to focus on performance improvement.

This project is unique in that it includes a series of smaller projects that relate to each other, and represent learning and professional development in action. I was able to make immediate connections between my coursework and the workplace, and was provided with opportunities to practice and receive feedback. Human resource development and performance improvement were both new to me at the beginning of this course. However, working on the many facets of this performance consulting project provided me with the confidence to assist organizations in analyzing their behavior, and to design programs that change or improve human performance.

Click here to view Memo of Agreement
Click here to view Executive Summary
Click here to view Presentation
Click here to view Questionnaires
Click here to view Recommended Strategy