Motivation is the force that converts intention into action. In a work setting, it is the drive that helps maintain goal-directed performance. For over 40 years, scientists and business researchers have conducted numerous studies to determine what incentives help motivate employees. So many companies spend thousands of dollars hiring outside firms to give motivation seminars, realizing that by nurturing the talent of individuals and building stronger teams, they can help cultivate a happy work environment.

What’s [...]

Today I’m kicking off a three-part series on performance appraisals from the perspective of HR, managers and employees. It’s the perfect time of year for all of these groups to give some thought to their role in the appraisal process as they complete 2010 reviews, and to think ahead on how to change things up in 2011. 

I speak with HR professionals every day about their talent management processes, and I hear a lot about their “pains” [...]

Developing great teachers and leaders is a key mandate of the U.S. government’s Race to the Top program. This stimulus program rewards States that have demonstrated success in raising student achievement and have the best plans to accelerate their reforms in the future.

Improving teacher and principal effectiveness using a pay for performance evaluation model is one program criteria garnering fierce debate among educators.

However, research from noted expert, author and professor Dr. James Stronge [...]

A new report from Aberdeen Group provides insight into how manufacturing organizations can achieve best-in-class employee performance management.

The study, conducted in May 2010 and involving 65 human resources and line of business professionals from the manufacturing sector, shows a strong link between talent management processes – such as goal alignment and employee development – and the overall success of manufacturing organizations.

It’s no secret that manufacturing organizations are faced with a number of challenges. [...]

As most of you know last month we hosted hundreds of our customers here in Ottawa. Nothing really compares with the energy of having that many of clients together in one place exchanging ideas and providing us with feedback.