The development and evaluation of an information technology support system to facilitate inter‐organisational collaboration in HRD

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to evaluate the diffusion of and user response to an information technology support system (ITSS) which was designed to facilitate inter‐organisational coordination and collaboration in the professional development of officers employed by local authorities (LAs).

Design/methodology/approach

An action research strategy was adopted reflecting the tightly coupled nature of the design and evaluation of a training coordination model. The evaluation comprised a preliminary questionnaire survey and analysis of focus group discussions.

Findings

The ITSS was regarded as having the potential to fulfil key training coordination functions; nevertheless, there was a low usage of it within its first eight months of operation. There was no evidence of overt organisational or cultural barriers but there was a failure to appreciate the usefulness and benefits of the collaborative tools provided by the ITSS.

Research limitations/implications

ITSSs have the capability to facilitate coordination and collaborative workplace learning for professional officers across local government boundaries but factors influencing organisational support may need further investigation.

Practical implications

Similar projects should incorporate initiatives to inform users and managers of the benefits of full engagement with the ITSS.

Originality/value

Web‐based systems, such as the one developed for this project, present a real opportunity for employers to work collaboratively to address specific professional development needs through sharing knowledge and resources

Citation

Ford, N.J. (2006), "The development and evaluation of an information technology support system to facilitate inter‐organisational collaboration in HRD", Journal of European Industrial Training, Vol. 30 No. 7, pp. 569-588. https://doi.org/10.1108/03090590610704411