Measuring organizational Learning LO26313

From: Barry Mallis (theorgtrainer@earthlink.net)
Date: 03/09/01


Replying to LO26307 --

Shalom, Yakoutiel. Mah shlomcha?

I saw you question on the LO list about measurement of org. learning.

I have some thoughts for you. First, I'd like to understand exactly what
you mean by "learning?" Are you trying to measure how people learn? How
much people learn? How long people hold on to learning? when learning
becomes skills through application? How long it takes learning to manifest
itself in client-identified improvements?

You see, this is a very complex issue to me. First, you have to know what
it is you wish to measure along with WHY it is you are looking to measure.
theory and philosophy aside, a social services organization takes measure
of itself through the view of society which it serves, no? That's what
social services is about.

Let me assume for a moment that you are seeking to improve some set of
qualities in your organization. That means that you can identify key
functions who perform critical tasks without which you would not achieve
your avowed purpose -- would not substantiate your reason-for-being.
Having identified the functions and the processes, you then look at the
client requirements. Compare those requirements against your process
capability to determine gaps. Look at the Ministry's functions. Having
identified at a high level of abstraction the key functions, determine
capability requirement for each function; then the capability requirements
in order to meet your client requirements. What are the gaps?

Having isolated the gaps, you can use the 7 Step process for identifying
the weaknesses. Collect data, analyze it, create and implement iterative
solutions, and standardize your solutions if they prove the right ones.

That is a complex process in a nutshell that employs two tools, the
Enterprise Model and the 7 Step Problem Solving methodology.

Let me know if I can elucidate any particular part.

L'Hitraoth,

Barry Mallis
Keene, NH USA

> I am looking for tools/questionnaires/protocols for Measuring Organizational
> Learning and particularly in Social services. I looked back at the
> learn-org archives and find only 2 short threads on that issue. Nothing
> conclusive on the net and in libraries as well. I will appreciate any help
> on that. Thanks

-- 

Barry Mallis <theorgtrainer@earthlink.net>

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