Action Learning—Organization Development

Action Learning Groups

Depending on the action learning problem, groups can be made up of individuals from across functions or departments. In some situations, groups are comprised of individuals from other organizations or professions such as the company's suppliers or customers. While many problems (developing a performance appraisal system or marketing strategy, for example) benefit from external, fresh perspectives and expertise, certain problems are perhaps best handled only with people internal to the organization (for example, handling a morale issue or combining two departments).

Though you want a diverse group, members should be near the same level of perceived competence so they feel comfortable challenging one another. The group dynamics ...