To support and inform all those professionally involved in human resource development, this handbook provides both a guide to best practice and new thinking at all levels, and a directory of the wide-ranging sources of information and support available to managers. The guidance comes from leading experts and practitioners in both large companies and SMEs, academic institutions and professional bodies. It addresses trends, preparing for future skills requirements, applications and evaluation. The directory offers key contact details and specialisms of over 1000 organizations that offer information and services in the following functional skills, organizational skills, personal skills, trainer support services, equipment and materials, qualifications, and standards. Case studies from industry are included.